The Knight (unofficially the world’s largest chess knight) pays homage to some of humankind’s superpowers - the majesty of the horse, strategy, fire, iron, stone, bronze, and hydraulic power! This piece is for chess lovers, horse lovers, public art lovers. The Knight represents the pinnacle of the metalcraft of the industrial era.

About Matt Burney:
Matt Burney is a metal artist based in Springfield, Oregon.  In 2015, he founded SO Metal, LLC as a custom fabrication studio. He specializes in creative metalwork, which often falls somewhere between art and engineering. His career began in mechanical engineering in the pressure vessel industry and has evolved into interactive sculpture and creative fabrication for other public artists. His passion is driven by functional and interactive pieces that feature reclaimed steel and mechanical components. Recycled metal and natural finishes tell a story of the passage of time and add a layer of character that new materials can’t duplicate. Curiosity and exploration drive his process and are the desired effect on his audience. The functionality of a piece draws the user in, encouraging an interaction or closer inspection, which rewards with a second layer of curious detail.

About Joe Mross:
Joe Mross received his degree in Fine and Applied Arts in 1993 from the University of Oregon, with an emphasis on metalsmithing and printmaking. He has spent his life intently pursuing artistic expression in various media, including metalsmithing, sculpture, painting, set design, printmaking, furniture, ceramics, and photography. As the founder and designer of Archive Designs, Joe brings over 27 years of experience in metalwork. His architectural metalwork has been featured in many books and magazines over the years and is showcased in high-end homes and establishments across the United States, the United Kingdom, the Bahamas, Ireland, Canada, and the Virgin Islands.