Working in steel, Luke Proctor's delights in conspicuously emphasizing forged joinery. All connecting points are intentionally exposed to draw attention to the drama of metal being forcefully pushed through metal. Inspired by Shaker woodwork, Luke seeks to bring the same honesty and purity to metalwork by focusing on simple forms and visible non-mechanical connections. His gracefully tapered beams and shimmering mottled surfaces evoke an unlikely lightness through form and texture achieved from metal striking metal.

Luke's designs seek to showcase the joinery by enlarging the connections and never concelaing them; rivets, bolts, and forged conections are always plainly visible in order to celebrate them.

The steel shingles of Luke's work are created by hammering out thick steel ingots. Edges may be left naturally free-form or squared off. Currently the largest overall dimensions possible on the shinges is 15" x 10". The texture can vary from Luke's signature pronounced ridging to a mild ripple - the smoother the surface the more work is required and the greater the risk of splitting. Shingle finishes include natural, darkened (Black Magic Patina), wire burshed (lighter), and painted distressed surface in historical agricultrual equipment colors, shown below. Gold leaf is used to accentuate elements, but only in a supporting role.

The frame and structure can range from 1" square to 2" square rods, always hand hamered. Interior cabinetry surfaces are executed in cold rolled steel.

Caterpillar Yellow