Craig Snyder of Plymouth, Minnesota has not always had a career in the arts. Nonetheless, his colorful piece entitled "Agitated Avians" now resides on Main Street in Wayne, in front of The Front Porch.
In college, Snyder studied computers and marketing, working in these fields for many years after graduation.
Around 12 to 15 years ago, he knew he wanted a change. A local art shop began offering welding for sculptors classes and he decided to sign up.
The artist now has sculptures in countless public shows, adding two to three new ones into the rotation every year. He also creates pieces on commission.
Currently, he is working on a piece in collaboration with Firefighters for Healing, an organization based out of Minnesota which supports children who have needed extensive care from burn trauma. His large, framed sign will hang in the burn unit of a local hospital.
For the sculpture in Wayne, Snyder said the process took only a few months.
"Like a lot of people, I'm super into color," Snyder said. "I wanted to make something bright and playful that people felt drawn to."
Using pieces of metal from former products, Snyder heated and bent the metal until the fragment resembled an abstract bird.
In his artist statement, Snyder said he often finds inspiration in the digital world. This project was no different. One of the most popular mobile games in recent years, Angry Birds, acted as the influence behind the concept. "Agitated Avians" came as a play on that name.
Snyder said he appreciates the interest the Wayne community has shown in public art and the kindness offered to the artists coming in every year.
Last year, Snyder also had a sculpture in the art show, called "Cube Farmer."
To see more of his art and his journey, visit his website at fireshapes.com.
