Three Bridges Framed Photo of New York East River Bridges

Three Bridges Artists’ Statement

A unique combination of picture and frame, “Three Bridges” came about through Designer Carl Watkins’ friendships with photographer Michael Morse and metal sculptor Jonathan Chandler. Carl has always been impressed with the Mike’s photo of the Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Williamsburg Bridges over the East River in New York City–especially the way the late afternoon light accentuates the bridge steel girder structure against the sky. It’s a picture of industrial strength, commerce, and urban vibrancy. Mike’s work can be viewed at www.duckworks.net

Jonathan does all types of metal fabrication and adds an artistic flair to even mundane projects whenever possible. He relishes challenges that other metal workers have considered to be too daunting. His work can be viewed at www.chandlermetalworks.com.

Carl determined the long girder shape of the bridges could be simulated in a frame evoking the industrial characteristics of the bridge structure. After months of brainstorming, the trio created a workable design and built a prototype solving numerous challenges of constructing such a frame.

A relatively recent innovation in photo-printing is the use of aluminum composite core print medium to improve definition for high-resolution print applications. This hard surface resists scratching, although sharp or abrasive objects can damage the surface, and uses UV-impervious inks. It is designed for exterior-lighted photo applications, and in interior situations or settings without exposure to sunlight and in average to low light, this medium is expected to last indefinitely. The finish also reduces glare and can be easily cleaned with glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth.

The frame is constructed of steel, and the girder pattern is cut out of 3/16” steel plate using an industrial waterjet cutter. The girder and frame are assembled with hand hammered rivets, imitating the construction techniques on the bridges in the photo. The intention is to simulate bridge construction, emphasizing the strength of steel relative to its weight. The picture is held in place in the frame with drilled and tapped machine screws and nuts. It is coated with clear acrylic to prevent rust and finger prints.

The photo and frame combination is 84” by 24”, weighs approximately 50 pounds and is supported by three brackets attached to the wall with screws into studs. Each signed, limited edition copy will be handmade and may vary slightly from the original. A short video of the finished Three Bridges photo and frame is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FZRjpGNdh74