Balls of Steel, Stainless Steel That Is
Author: Tracy Sigler | Posted: March 14th, 2006 | | Tags: Handmade, metalwork, sculpture | 2 Comments »
I made this when I was working in a sheet metal shop in a shipyard. Why? I do not know, but it probably had something to do with “the man” getting on my nerves and me reacting by doing a little “goverment job.” This ball is made of 16 gauge stainless steel. Two discs were cut on a circle shear. Then they were taken to a spinning lathe where the disks were shaped against a hemispherical steel mold. Before the two shells were TIG welded together I decided to put a large steel ball, maybe 1.5 inches in diameter, inside. Then they were welded along the seam and the center holes were carefully filled. Finally, the ball was ground smooth(ish) on a belt sander.
In hindsight I wish I had tried to partially fill it with water instead of a steel ball. Although that would have made the welding difficult I think it would be more interesting. Still, when you hold it there is a compelling urge to whip it in a circle to feel, and hear, the internal ball whirring around. But it’s like playing the drums — fun for you and irritating for everyone else.
It seems that it should have been more pleasurable to make it than to hold it and annoy others. Still, it probably looks as a symbol of determination, strength, and stability when displayed on a three-legged stand on an office’s desk.
Stainless still can be representative of whatever one fashions: technology, scientific achievement, authority, knowledge, wisdom, etc. Some believe that steel is a positive-energy inducer when held and looked at. I am one of those believers. That positive energy must feel the strongest when you went through the stages of making it.
Good job Tracy!
My vote is half water plus ball. I feel frustrated imagining the restrictive water; additionally it would become a time capsule of forgotten pathogens, atmospheric pollution and “fresh water” AD: 1990.