A Hand-Painted Metal Arbor: Where Decorative Painting Meets Sculpture

When I first saw this incredible 8-foot arbor, I was in awe. Designed and fabricated by Bobby Machovec of Machovec Metal Works in Glen Rock, PA, it was already a showstopper, with handcrafted branches and leaves full of character and texture. I was honored to be asked to enhance it with custom decorative painting.

This wasn’t just a piece of metalwork. It was destined to become a tribute to the generous donors of York College of Pennsylvania, with each leaf representing an individual who helped make a difference. And with that meaning behind it, I knew every brushstroke had to be intentional.

Breathing Life Into Metal Arbor Sculpture with Decorative Painting

My process began with the leaves. Each one was hand-painted using layers of glazes to create subtle shifts in color, dimension, and warmth. The goal was to enhance the natural curves and textures already present in the metal.

Once the foliage was complete, I turned to the bark. I kept the treatment very subtle, just enough to complement the branches without competing with the beauty of the metalwork. I wanted the finish to support the piece, not distract from the craftsmanship Bobby had already built into it.

A Living Tribute

What makes this sculpture piece so special is its purpose. The arbor will stand proudly on the York College campus, where each painted leaf will be hand-lettered with the name of a donor. It’s a living, growing symbol of gratitude rooted in craftsmanship, elevated with artistry, and filled with meaning.

Projects like this remind me why I do what I do. It's not just about decorative finishes, it’s about telling stories through surfaces, adding soul to structure, and helping beautiful objects speak even more clearly.

I’m grateful to have been a part of this collaborative work of art and can’t wait for the public to experience it in person when it’s installed this September.

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Want to see more of my past work?

Click below to browse a gallery of faux finishes I've created for walls, furniture, and architectural details.

FAUX FINISHES

Interested in Custom Painted Artwork?

If you have a special piece that deserves a one-of-a-kind finish, whether it’s a sculpture, a room, or cabinetry, I’d love to bring your vision to life.

📩 Contact me to start a conversation.