1202 W. Thomas Road
Phoenix, Arizona 85013
602–285–7500

Opening Art Show Displays Unique Talent of Turning Junkyard Scraps into Functional Sculptures

By: Christy Skeen

Local sculptor Emil Kass, may not consider himself a professional artist by any means; however, his eye for turning junkyard scrapes into functional art has caught the attention of many locals.

A number of pieces from his outside museum, located at 5824 E. Cambridge in Scottsdale, will make their way into the Phoenix College Art Gallery from Aug. 18 to Sept. 10. A collection of rusted cowboys and desert flora, made directly from saw blades and automobile pistons will be on display Monday –Friday from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

His unique designs and creations did not evolve after years of art school or instruction. It was after 33 years of counseling and teaching stress management at Phoenix College, when Kass decided to take a welding class, which initiated his now loved hobby of sculpting. However, his unusual hobby not only includes sculpting, but he also believes that collecting the pieces for the final creation is just as important.

Whether Kass is on the hunt exploring junkyards or garage sales for old tractor seats or weathered rakes, he only uses second-hand scrap metal that has a creative or unique flare for his art.

"My friends and family have become great prowlers as well," said Kass. "They’ve found unusual metal and scrap parts that I’ve used in my artwork."

The show is free and open to the public. All artwork appearing in the show will be on sale.

For more information about the show, please call (602) 285-7277.