DK METALART Explore Mondoir Studio Nationality: Bulgarian Born: 1994 Artistic discipline: sculpture Based in: Zlatiza, BG BiographyI am Iliq Hristov, a self-taught metal artist from Bulgaria and the founder of DK MetalArt, established in 2018. I create animal-inspired sculptures and wall pieces from mild steel and stainless steel, translating recognisable forms into geometric compositions. I personally shape, TIG-weld and finish each sculpture, combining skilled metalwork with my own artistic approach. My work features satin, mirror-polished and heat-coloured finishes, with optional lighting in selected pieces. Alongside my own designs, I create commissioned works with dimensions and finishes adapted to individual spaces. Artist StatementFor me, working with metal is a connection between memory, craftsmanship and expression. My father inspired my connection to making, and after his passing, I began teaching myself to work with metal. That personal history remains part of my practice. I am drawn to the challenge of giving rigid steel a sense of life. Animals provide a starting point: the strength of a bull, the movement of a shark or the quiet presence of a cat. Through geometric planes, I seek to capture their character rather than reproduce every detail. I personally shape, weld and finish each piece. This hands-on process allows me to explore how form, light and surface work together. Satin finishes soften reflections, polished steel responds to its surroundings, and heat colouring brings unexpected colour to the material. My aim is to create sculptures that invite people to pause, look closer and form their own connection with the work. Each piece carries something of my story while finding a new meaning in the space it inhabits. ExhibitionsI have not yet participated in formal exhibitions. To date, I have focused on developing my sculpture portfolio and creating commissioned works. I am now seeking opportunities to exhibit my work and build relationships with galleries. AwardsNo formal awards to date. EducationSelf-taught metal artist with practical experience in metal fabrication, TIG welding and surface finishing. I have developed my skills through independent study, hands-on practice and experimentation with mild steel and stainless steel. My training focuses on shaping, welding, polishing and heat colouring, with continual refinement of my techniques through the creation of each sculpture. Artworks by DK METALART The Shark — Handcrafted Geometric Stainless Steel Sculpture Medium: TIG-welded stainless steel with a polished, heat-coloured finish Price: $4980.00 USD The Bull — Handcrafted Geometric Steel Sculpture Medium: Welded mild steel with a Cobra paint finish Price: $5500.00 USD
The Shark — Handcrafted Geometric Stainless Steel Sculpture Medium: TIG-welded stainless steel with a polished, heat-coloured finish Price: $4980.00 USD
The Bull — Handcrafted Geometric Steel Sculpture Medium: Welded mild steel with a Cobra paint finish Price: $5500.00 USD
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