Today we’d like to introduce you to Edward Perry.
Hi Edward, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My name is Ed Perry, and I’ve been an artist for as long as I can remember. I started this as a hobby about five years ago, but soon had too many pieces to keep around the house. I named my business Torch and Nail because it incorporated techniques I use in my art. We are actually a family of artist. We have presented works by my wife Gail, sons Steve and Eric. Gail and Eric are both blind. I taught them both to weld and they have created many wonderful pieces. Specializing in reclaimed wood and metal, I draw inspiration from nature and the intriguing shapes found in discarded materials. My creations range from small tabletop pieces to large wall art and freestanding sculptures. Each piece is meticulously cut, shaped, and welded by hand. While I hope to captivate a broad audience with my work, I also take great pleasure in collaborating with clients on commissioned works, transforming their visions into unique artistic expressions.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has been a learning experience. When I first started, I couldn’t weld two pieces of metal together if you paid me. But with practice and learning from my mistakes, my technique improved. Selling the art was very slow at first. I have since grown a customer base by showing pieces in a number of galleries, art shows and farmers markets.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My last professional job was a code enforcement officer for the city. It was highly stressful. I was always seeking a creative outlet to unwind and made gifts for friends and family. After retiring, I built a workshop and remodeled our kitchen to make it more accessible for my wife. I started using some of the leftover materials from my projects to make art. The thing I love most about creating, is the look on people’s faces when one of our pieces touches them. It is really awesome when we have return customers, and especially when they ask to have a piece created for someone special in their lives. I think what makes my, and my family’s work special is the care and devotion put into each piece.
What makes you happy?
First and foremost, I am happy for the love I feel in my life. I could not do what I do, without the support of my family and friends. Secondly, I find great joy in creating art from salvaged materials once discarded and heading to the landfill, and is now a piece of art that brings smiles for years to come.
Contact Info:
- Website: TorchandNail.art
- Instagram: torchandnail_art
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19vDQA6n6P/
