Artist Bio

Ian Gallo’s artistic journey is a tale of unexpected detours and transformative moments. In 2018, the art community was ignited by his debut at Okeechobee Music Festival with his 8ft interactive dragonfly kaleidoscope, captivating 32,000 attendees with his artwork. Since then, Ian has swiftly garnered attention for his large-scale art inspired by nature and human form, showcasing his creations at prominent art festivals and galleries.

In pursuit of a steady income, Ian was on track to becoming a successful pipeline welder after his graduation from Lively Tech’s Advanced Welding Program in 2019. Accompanied by a multitude of nationally recognized AWS certifications, he found himself moving to Atlanta with his fiance to join UA Local Union 72. After feeling a lack of creative expression, Ian took a risk and established his own company with a bold vision to address the diverse welding needs of the local community. His services extended to a wide array of commercial and residential fabrication and restoration projects, ranging from handrails, ladder racks, and car haulers to undertaking intricate construction jobs involving multi-story buildings with beams and columns.

His perspective was transformed in 2021 after fabricating and wiring a gorgeous illuminated backdrop for his own wedding. After the celebration, their florist suggested future collaborations involving that structure. This pivotal experience not only reshaped the direction of his business, sparking numerous artistic collaborations with a diverse range of partners including designers, event planners, venue owners, and wedding florists but also solidified his commitment to the continued success and growth of his venture.

After years of learning new art techniques and mediums working in the wedding industry, Ian was ready to re-emerge into the large-scale installation art scene. Working within his self-made shipping container studio outside of Atlanta, Ian single-handedly sculpted his most stunning art installation to date. Inspired by the Yoruba goddess of storms, “Oyá” is a 14ft tall warrior goddess made entirely of hand-crafted aluminum. After years of planning with the site developer, “Oyá” is installed and scheduled to be debuted in Tallahassee, FL in the fall of 2024.

Ian was 1 of 16 artists chosen from a large pool of applicants to participate in Atlanta’s 2024 Beltline Business Ventures program. Guided by Tiffany LaTrice and Aisha White of TILA Studios, this prestigious program offers a comprehensive curriculum to empower locally recognized artists by bolstering their business acumen. Noteworthy collaborations with distinguished artists and curators like Autumn Breon, Tony Loadholt, Ellex Swavoni, Oshun Layne, and Tisha Smith contribute to enriching this transformative growth opportunity.

Ian’s art resonates with a unique blend of strength and vulnerability, where elements of his world intersect and converse within his sculptures. With his talent, determination, and a growing network of artist connections, Ian’s artistic journey is only just beginning.

Artist Statement

“In my creative journey, I explore the intertwining of nature and humanity. Through metal sculptures, I seek to unravel how people connect with their changing environment and navigate cultural and economic disparities. Inspired by the rugged allure of industrial design, my creations embody a marriage of robust materials and intricate detailing. Each sculpture is a testament to the delicate dance between form and function, where graceful curves and dynamic lines converge with knowledge of structural stability.

Each weld is more than just a joining of materials. It also serves as a testament to the strength and vulnerability inherent in societal existence. Just as welding requires skill, knowledge, and the right tools to create a strong bond, society relies on economic stability, social cohesion, political governance, and cultural values working in harmony. Weaknesses in these areas can cause societal breakdowns, akin to a weak weld causing structural failures. However, as a skilled welder brings pieces together, societies can overcome challenges by being adaptable and resilient, striving for inclusivity, flexibility, and sustainability. My sculptures stand as catalysts for introspection, encouraging viewers to reassess the values they hold and the narratives they perpetuate.

Through my work, I aspire to challenge perceptions and spark conversations. Ultimately, I advocate for a more decorated, inclusive, and equitable society where love and community building resources are accessible to all, regardless of economic means.”