Thom Wheeler Signed Metal Wall Sculpture (1975) 
Thom Wheeler Signed Metal Wall Sculpture (1975)
Art Title: Untitled
Artist: Thom Wheeler
Medium: Aluminum, Copper, Brass, Stone, and Turquoise on Wood Panel
Signed: Upper Left, "T. Wheeler '75"
Frame: Unframed. Mounted on a wood panel for wall hanging
Description:
This abstract metal wall sculpture by Thom Wheeler, signed and dated 1975, exemplifies his expertise in working with mixed metals. Wheeler combines aluminum, copper, brass, and stone, with the focal point being a piece of turquoise embedded within the design. The intricate, flowing shapes are accented by small brass nails, creating a striking textural contrast between the warm, earthy tones of the copper and brass and the cool sheen of the aluminum. Mounted on a wood panel, the sculpture is ready to be hung, making it a perfect piece of modern wall art.
Wheeler's ability to transform raw materials into evocative compositions is on full display in this piece, with the organic curves and abstract forms inviting viewers to engage with it from multiple perspectives. His craftsmanship reflects a seamless blend of industrial and artistic elements, characteristic of the Brutalist style for which he's known.
Condition:
Good, with minor scuffs visible and slight loss to the finish consistent with the age of the piece.
Size:
- 30" x 24"
About the Artist:
Thom Wheeler is an acclaimed American sculptor, known for his intricate metalwork that has been referred to as "wall jewelry." Born in Texas in 1946, Wheeler started his career working with stone and wood before transitioning to metals in the early 1970s. His works typically blend aluminum, copper, brass, and other metals with natural elements like turquoise and stone. His move to New Mexico in the mid-1980s further influenced his art, as he incorporated Southwestern themes into his designs, often exploring the relationships between geometric shapes and organic forms.
Wheeler’s metal sculptures are known for their Brutalist style, with their textured surfaces, bold forms, and a fusion of modernist design with natural elements. His works have been displayed in galleries and collected by art enthusiasts who appreciate his unique ability to blend industrial materials with aesthetic beauty.
Wheeler's meticulous craftsmanship, paired with his innovative use of patina and metalwork techniques, make his sculptures highly collectible, as they showcase both the technical skill and artistic vision that have made him a prominent figure in modern metal sculpture.