Robert Carey’s smiling Man of Steel sculpture is a close replica of the human structure, down to correct spine curvature, rib cage, hips, skull and jawbone, as well as elbow and knee joints.
“I worked out of a human anatomy textbook,” said Carey, who recently graduated from the welding program at Winnipeg Technical College.
“I wanted to replicate the true human anatomy as closely as possible, so I tried to incorporate all the correct structural features of a real person into the sculpture.”
Carey also used an inexpensive 3-D program similar to the more advanced computer aided design systems normally used by engineers and architects. He said the software was a useful tool for designing a sculpture or a steel bridge.
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“You can make components to scale, move them around, see how they fit together. It’s actually simple to use. Plus, I’ve always enjoyed looking at an object and figuring out how it’s made, so that probably made it easier to use.”
The metal man is constructed mainly of mild steel, but it also contains aluminum for the head and stainless steel for the belt buckle.
“I designed the buckle on the computer and punched it through into the plasma cutting machine. When you’re doing fine cuts, it’s easier if you use stainless because it doesn’t overheat like mild steel.”
Carey considers himself to be both artist and welder. He said he’s working toward becoming a journeyman welder.
“I’m going to get my red seal. Then I can call myself a welder.”
Before attending Winnipeg Technical, Carey spent four years in the fine arts program at the University of Manitoba. His first major had been 3-D animation.
“But I got bored sitting at a desk looking at a computer screen, so I transferred to sculpture. I really like that because it’s real 3-D. But I saw it wasn’t going to pay the rent.
“I realized I need a job that pays. So I decided to become a welder. I really enjoy working with metal. It feels good.”
Carey has just finished the first step in his welding certification program, and his long-term business plan is ready.
“Right now, I want to gain as much welding experience as I can in all kinds of welding. Eventually I want to save enough money to open up my own welding shop.”
The Man of Steel sculpture has been nicknamed Eddy. Carey plans to donate it to Winnipeg Technical College, where it will go on permanent display.
