How Do You Make Art Out Of Chicken Wire?

October 1, 2012 Duncan Page

There are many different uses for chicken wire. It is much more versatile than you might expect.

One of the most unique uses is shaping the hexagonal netting into pieces of sculpture. Ivan Lovatt, a sculptor from Australia, has created an amazing collection of artwork. Using galvanized chicken wire he has made representations of both people and wildlife. The small light gauge mesh allows him to bend, fold, crease and cut the wire mesh into it's final shape. The result is an amazingly life-like rendition. Take a look at this video and see what you think.

 

 

The most common specifications of chicken wire available are made using 20 gauge wire woven into 1" or 2" hexagonal mesh. Other types available are 1/2" x 22 gauge, 1" x 18 gauge and 1-1/2 x 17gauge.

Finishes available are: galvanized before weave (GBW), galvanized after weave (GAW), PVC vinyl coated (VC) and stainless steel. Not all specifications are available in all finishes.

This fencing material is ideal for use around home, farm, and in industrial applications - any place where a lighter weight mesh can be used. Conventional uses include:

  • deer fence
  • craft projects
  • stucco netting
  • window guards
  • game bird flight pens
  • garden perimeter fence
  • tree and shrub protection
  • holding insulation in place
  • exclusion barriers for birds
  • chicken runs and poultry houses
  • trellis for climbing plants & flowers
  • backing mesh for post and rail fence
  • framework for sculpture and float decorations

How many different ways can you think of to use chicken wire? Have you tried using it that way?

 

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