About

This class is a brief introduction to Oxy/Acetylene (Gas) welding.  "Oxy" is a rewarding way to weld and do art work.  It is more hands-on than MIG, a very tactile experience.  This class is offered for students wanting only a brief introduction of gas welding.

The first half of the class is devoted to explanation of the Oxy/Acetylene process, safety, proper use of tools, and hands-on development of technique. The second half will be using what you have learned to create with welding rod and to use gas welding to join pieces of metal.

Oxy/Acetylene welding uses gas and welding rod to create structures or join materials.  A gas mixture is used to create a molten pool to which filler material is added by hand to create a weld of build up sculptural material.  It can be the most creative of the welding processes.

The class is from 9:30 to 12:30.  It is separate from the Oxy sculpture class offered on Sunday and is not a prerequisite to that class. 

Oxy/Acetylene processes are also applicable to heating and bending, brazing, flame treating (coloring), and cutting (ferrous) metals.  Understanding and proficiency using Oxy/Fuel is essential to having a full range of skills in the welding studio.

Details:

• There is a $15 materials fee for gas and filler rod that is included in the tuition price.
• Safety and Personal Protection Equipment will be provided by BARN.
• Students must wear natural fiber clothing, long sleeves and long pants, closed toe shoes (preferably leather or cotton), no stretch fabrics.  

Instructor Bio:
David Gonzo began his craft in the steel and welding trade 18 years ago in his hometown of Albuquerque, NM. And almost began dabbling in metal art.

His passion for knowledge and skills on the process of transforming metal into art began to grow into metal alchemy.  In San Diego, he created his business Iron Insanity, and continued growing his knowledge and passion for his art. After a stint in British Columbia, Dave ended up in Portland and eventually set himself up in a studio and teaching space full time to transform metal into art. 

Today, Dave collaborates with other talented artists as a member within the Pacific Northwest Sculptors group. He has received five awards for his sculptures at the Curious Gallery exhibition held in Portland Oregon, and has provided metal art to other local establishments.  He is one of the artists Wells & Verne showcases where he shows and sells his custom jewelry and sculptures.

Email: artist@davegonzosculpture.com Phone: 503-270-9394

Alternative Contact:  Henry Sharpe, henrysharpe@gmail.com, 206 708-0561

See examples of instructor Dave Gonzo’s work at:  

http://www.davegonzosculpture.com/large-sculpture/

http://www.davegonzosculpture.com/table-top-sculpture/

http://www.davegonzosculpture.com/wall-sculpture/