​Amie J. Jacobsen is a designer, sculptor and public artist living and working in the Kansas City area.  A lifelong creator, she has produced work in painting, illustration, and graphic design before transitioning to 3D design and metal-working in 2015.  She holds a BA in Studio Art from Western State Colorado, as well as an MFA in Illustration from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) where she also taught illustration from 2006-2015. 

In 2015, Amie took the opportunity to learn metalworking as the in-house designer and resident artist at Machine Head, a metal fabrication shop in the Crossroads Art District in Kansas City, MO. After 2 years she was awarded her first large scale sculpture commission and moved into her own studio and workshop. Today, Amie's studio is located in Independence, MO, part of the Kansas City Metro area, where she employs 3 assistants. Together, they produce sculptures, artisan furniture and public art pieces throughout the US. ​.

Artist Statement

"Though I have been an artist all my life, my introduction to metalworking opened the door to the world of public art and completely reshaped my career. While I am always grateful for the opportunity to work with private collectors, designing pieces for public spaces, whether publicly or privately commissioned, has truly captured my heart. Art has the power not just to enhance a space, but also to tell stories, express viewpoints, communicate values, create a sense of place, and elevate community pride. The main goal of my work is not just to create interesting objects, but also to discover ways to help both the individual collector and/or a community at large to to express those messages in ways that are meaningful to them. 

I currently work in steel, stainless steel, and aluminum, and incorporate wood, glass, paint, and various other materials. This allows me to create pieces ranging from functional to whimsical to monumental. My style tends toward an elegant playfulness as I explore the energetic movement of form within space, as well as the balance of different textures, materials and colors. Each piece is unique, but I inevitably circle back to flora and fauna, wildlife, and nature in my subject matter. In my public works I also strive to include an interactive element hoping to create an experience for the viewer beyond mere observation.

My process begins with researching the community I am designing for, then brainstorming and sketching ideas. Once a concept is formed, sketches are developed into 3D computer models. Design and engineering details are worked out and step by step plans are developed. The materials are often laser cut with a CNC to specific shapes and sizes before I begin to manipulate them by hand. I think of the material more like clay than an industrial product, planning how I can shape it into soft curves and flowing lines. I grind textures into the surface and intentionally leave marks that show a human touch. The tools of my work include power equipment - saws, torches, welders, and grinders, as well as sketchbook, computer and tablet. 

It has been such an honor to contribute to the landscape of so many communities. They have each touched me far more than my small contributions could have done for them. "