Oregon metal sculpture artist honors the military using ‘brushstrokes of steel’

Danny Peterson
·1 min read

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Oregon artist Travis Pond is using his skills in metal sculpture to create a one-of-a-kind piece that honors the military and those who serve.

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KOIN 6 News photojournalist Jake Jenkins spent time inside the artist’s Steel Pond Studios to witness the unorthodox marriage of repurposed military equipment welded together to create a giant eagle that will stand 12 feet tall once it’s affixed to the base.

  • Travis Pond works on his in-progress eagle sculpture that honors the military. April 19, 2024 (KOIN).
    Travis Pond works on his in-progress eagle sculpture that honors the military. April 19, 2024 (KOIN).
  • Travis Pond works on his in-progress eagle sculpture that honors the military. April 19, 2024 (KOIN).
    Travis Pond works on his in-progress eagle sculpture that honors the military. April 19, 2024 (KOIN).
  • Travis Pond stands next to his in-progress eagle sculpture that honors the military. April 19, 2024 (KOIN).
    Travis Pond stands next to his in-progress eagle sculpture that honors the military. April 19, 2024 (KOIN).

Using what Jenkins calls “brushstrokes of steel,” some of the pieces of metal are from his own grandfather’s time in the military.

The piece will be installed next week with a formal dedication in May. Details about the location and unveiling are forthcoming.

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