Martin Munson

Metal Fabrication Sculpture

Artist’s Statement

My sculptures are intended to be environmental interpretive “tools” that embody the struggle between man and nature. They are kinetic and respond to the immediate environment as if to imply a functional purpose. The “experience” of technology and organic reclamation is visible in my sculptures and creates contrasts. The contrast exists between natural and man-made forms. Parts of my work appear organically reclaimed while other images look technologically processed. I respond to the struggle between the powers of nature; nature’s endurance and slow reclamation versus man’s ability and inability to control and manipulate this process. My work addresses the success and failure of man’s technological prowess versus Mother Nature’s continuances.

The Interview:
Martin Munson, February 2026

Interview conducted and edited by Nancy Martin

NJM: Who has inspired your art and creativity?

MM: In my formative years, my drawings were influenced by cartoonists Rube Goldberg and Dr. Seuss. In my later artistic pursuits, I was inspired by the Northern California, Funk movement. The Di Rosa Preserve has displayed many of my favorites sculptors. Some of the artists who have inspired my creativity are: Peter Volkus, Stephen DeStabler and Richard Shaw and Robert Hudson. Two of my favorite metal sculptors are Mark Di Suvero and Alexander Calder, both are monumental, kinetic artists.

NJM: What makes something art?

MM: I believe that art is a personal statement. A visual vocabulary that should be a profound idea, rendered profoundly. Both fine art and craft should emulate personal identity of the artist and the material process and journey.

NJM: Does your work carry a message?

MM: My sculptures are intended to be environmental interpretive “tools” that embody the struggle between man and nature. They are kinetic and respond to the immediate environment as if to imply a functional purpose. The experience of technology and organic reclamation is visible in my sculptures and creates contrasts. The contrast exists between natural and man-made forms. Parts of my work appear organically reclaimed while other images look technologically processed. I respond to the struggle between the powers of nature; nature’s endurance and slow reclamation versus man’s ability and inability to control and manipulate this process. My work addresses the success and failure of man’s technological prowess versus Mother Nature’s continuances.

NJM: Do you consciously evolve your work or does serendipity happen?

MM: My creative process comes from collecting and editing interesting textured materials. I repurpose and recycle industrial treasure to create form and content. It is important for me to manipulate the metal beyond its original intent and purpose. This shows the hand of the artist and the process used to tell the story.

Read the Full Interview and Martin’s Bio

Marty’s work can be found on Instagram at: martinmunson.com

Interview conducted and edited by Nancy Martin http://nancyjmartinauthor.com