Western Art Magazine
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Arizona based steel and glass sculptors, Terry & Marilyn Alexander, capture the spirit of the Southwest with a contemporary, abstract panache. Bold colors achieved with a “watercolor” paint technique are matched with vibrant fused and dichroic glass, highlighting the rustic patina of raw steel, hammered copper and bright stainless. The synthesis of unlikely materials . . . strong and fragile, rusted and refined, light and dark forges a unique, yet timeless tribute to the Desert Southwest.
After pursuing more traditional careers, Terry & Marilyn decided to combine their talents with their love of the Southwest culture. Entirely self-taught, they set about developing this unexpected fusion. Three glass kilns, two welders, plasma cutters, torches and a forge, a 2 story studio and thousands of hours later, the work has refined into an instantly recognizable portfolio, not only for its bright inspiring colors but also for its uplifting, spiritual qualities.
Terry & Marilyn design and source material for each piece. Sometimes the steel has to sit on the shelves in the studio for months before its true purpose shines through. . . . sometimes it speaks right away. After it is cut and welded into its new form, it is hammered, ground down to raw silver steel, painted with a “rusted watercolor” technique, patina is applied, and then off to the body shop for clear coat or to the powder coat oven. Terry & Marilyn collaborate on glass and finishes as well as naming rights. Each piece is signed in molten steel at about 8000F degrees with the initials, TM in a petroglyph logo.
Terry & Marilyn have been juried into many fine art shows in the Southwest. Their pieces are included in numerous private collections throughout the U.S. and internationally.