A Closer Look at MY Brutalist Nail Sculpture

A Closer Look at My Brutalist Nail Sculpture: Details, Texture, and Form

After the exciting launch of my latest Brutalist metal sculpture — a striking piece crafted from brazed square-cut nails and steel washers — I’m thrilled to share a more detailed look at the craftsmanship behind it. Today, I’m featuring close-up shots and angled views to highlight the intricate textures, bold forms, and raw industrial beauty that make this sculpture truly unique.

Brutalist Art in Metal: Strength Meets Precision

In the spirit of classic Brutalist art, my sculpture embraces rugged simplicity and emphasizes the beauty of raw materials. Each square nail was hand-positioned and brazed in place with careful attention to form, balance, and negative space. The washers add a rhythmic circular contrast, creating a compelling interplay between lines and curves.

By working with basic construction materials like nails and washers, I aimed to capture the essence of strength and permanence — key characteristics of Brutalist design.

Close-Up Shots: Revealing the Fine Details

The close-up photos reveal textures you might miss from a distance:

• The rough yet purposeful weld marks where the brazing rod flowed and fused the metal

• Subtle color variations where heat tempered the steel during the joining process

• The intricate layering of elements that adds depth and complexity to the overall structure

These details create a tactile quality, making the sculpture feel alive with energy even when still.

Angled Views: New Perspectives on Form and Light

With angled shots, you can see how the sculpture’s composition changes with your point of view.
From one angle, the nails appear rigid and monolithic; shift slightly, and they open into a dynamic, almost organic pattern. This shifting perception was intentional — I wanted viewers to engage with the piece, discovering new relationships between light, shadow, and form as they move around it.

The piece measures 10 inches by 18 inches and stands half an inch off the wall, casting dramatic shadows that further enhance its visual impact. 

Discover More in My Shop

If you love the bold, architectural character of Brutalist art, you’ll want to check out my Etsy shop here, where you can see this piece and more one-of-a-kind metal sculptures. Each creation is designed to bring raw energy and modern sophistication into your space.

Stay tuned for even more upcoming work — including larger, multi-layered wall sculptures inspired by the interplay of industrial materials and light.

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