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Built to Last: Five Fabricators Powering Public Art

Written by Yasmin Spiro | Jul 30, 2025 5:51:42 PM
Public art doesn’t just emerge from imagination—it’s built through deep collaboration. Behind many iconic works are fabricators whose technical knowledge, creative problem-solving, and steady hands help bring bold ideas into the physical world. These five studios from the CODAworx network are trusted partners to artists, translating vision into form, and playing a crucial—if often unsung—role in shaping our shared environments.

Behind every striking public artwork is a quiet force—teams of fabricators who turn ideas into physical form. While artists may dream up the vision, it’s often these highly skilled collaborators who help shape, problem-solve, and ultimately make the work real. From structural integrity to material nuance, they bring years of experience and intuition to the table. They’re rarely in the spotlight, but their impact is visible in every weld, cast, and carefully finished surface.

Bollinger Atelier, Tempe, AZ

A full-service art foundry and fabricator, Bollinger Atelier has worked with artists from all over the world to produce large-scale sculptures and design objects. Known for their technical expertise in metal casting, they also bring deep experience in mixed media and architectural elements. Their collaborative process helps artists realize ambitious works with precision and care.

Metalab, Houston, TX

Metalab operates at the intersection of art, architecture, and industrial design. Their multidisciplinary studio combines metal fabrication with digital prototyping, often working directly with artists and designers to refine concepts and solve design challenges. They bring a contemporary edge and adaptive mindset to every project.

Vector Custom Fabricating,  Chicago, IL

With over 40 years of experience, Vector has become a trusted name in large-scale metal fabrication for public art. Their team is known for navigating complex installations and engineering hurdles with a calm, hands-on approach. Artists value their dependability and attention to detail—qualities that show up in projects across the country.

Engineered Artworks, Richmond, CA

Specializing in kinetic and technically complex works, Engineered Artworks brings an inventive spirit to fabrication. Their team includes engineers, designers, and builders who thrive on turning dynamic ideas into working realities. They’re problem-solvers who understand the balance between aesthetics and mechanics.

Johnson Atelier, Hamilton, NJ

With a legacy spanning decades, Johnson Atelier is a pillar in the world of art fabrication. Originally founded as a teaching foundry, it has evolved into a cutting-edge facility supporting contemporary artists across mediums. From metal casting to digital fabrication, their team combines deep craft knowledge with forward-thinking innovation, making them a trusted partner for ambitious public art projects.

In a field that often celebrates the final product, these fabricators are a reminder that making is as much about collaboration as it is about vision.

Do you have news, stories, or projects to share? We’d love to hear from you—reach out to editor@codaworks.com