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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 employees 3 assistants. Together, they produce sculptures, artisan furniture and public art pieces throughout the US. |
Artist Statement
The creative drive is innate to the human experience. Yet we don’t just create- we create with purpose. Art is how we purposely enhance our lives. It's the design on your coffee mug, the curve of your car, the pattern on your throw pillows. We use art to tell stories, to decorate, to express emotions or viewpoints, to test limits, or simply for fun. For me, the purpose is simple. - I strive to create delightful experiences to both public and private spaces. However, my favorite work is for the public. I love to create something that is meant for everyone to enjoy!
I currently work in steel, stainless steel, and aluminum, but also incorporate wood, glass, paint, and various other materials. This allows me to create pieces ranging from functional to whimsical to monumental. Each pieces is unique, but being from an outdoorsy Colorado family, I inevitably circle back to flora and fauna, wildlife, insects, and other animals as inspiration. Ultimately my work is meant to be uplifting and communicate energy and playfulness while maintaining a sense of elegance and craftsmanship.
My process begins with brainstorming and sketching. Once an idea is fully formed, sketches are developed into 3D computer models. Design and engineering details are worked out and step by step plans are developed. Materials are then ordered. Usually this includes pieces and parts that have been laser cut to specific shapes and sizes, as well as raw materials that must be cut and formed. The tools of my work include power equipment - saws, torches, welders, and grinders, as well as sketchbook, computer and tablet.
I work hard to hone my skills and techniques, but I have learned that it is human ingenuity and fearless expression that touches people the most. For me, each piece is a celebration of the joy of human creativity and the ability to take raw materials and make something new!
I currently work in steel, stainless steel, and aluminum, but also incorporate wood, glass, paint, and various other materials. This allows me to create pieces ranging from functional to whimsical to monumental. Each pieces is unique, but being from an outdoorsy Colorado family, I inevitably circle back to flora and fauna, wildlife, insects, and other animals as inspiration. Ultimately my work is meant to be uplifting and communicate energy and playfulness while maintaining a sense of elegance and craftsmanship.
My process begins with brainstorming and sketching. Once an idea is fully formed, sketches are developed into 3D computer models. Design and engineering details are worked out and step by step plans are developed. Materials are then ordered. Usually this includes pieces and parts that have been laser cut to specific shapes and sizes, as well as raw materials that must be cut and formed. The tools of my work include power equipment - saws, torches, welders, and grinders, as well as sketchbook, computer and tablet.
I work hard to hone my skills and techniques, but I have learned that it is human ingenuity and fearless expression that touches people the most. For me, each piece is a celebration of the joy of human creativity and the ability to take raw materials and make something new!