Bates Wilson is known for taking discarded metal, often rusted and abused, and giving it a new life. In his studio, street signs, old engine parts and other pieces of metal become animals, surfboards, guns and more original works.

“The idea is to make something new out of old things; to take that which is discarded and renew the life it once had.”

“Art should allow for the continuous evolution of materials and ideas.”

Wilson’s work creates conversations, whether about the sheer size and majesty or his messages about endangered animals featured in sculptures.

Excerpted from Vail Daily News