Metalhead
When the stainless steel cools, this master welder is left with a metal masterpiece.
Photo by Kristin Laughter
"When you're fighting with (an
armor project), it's really rewarding
because you realize how it's
protecting you and how beautiful it
is," Klemm-Toole says.
Every girl loves getting a rose, but how about one created using thin, stainless steel, with pieces cut and bent into the shape of petals and welded to a rod to make a metal flower?
That is what Jonah Klemm-Toole made for a girl he was dating. In fact, all the gifts he gives to his loved ones are unique and special because he creates them himself.
When Klemm-Toole, 20, looks at metal, he sees the potential for art. His passion began with a centuries-old art form: armor making. With guidance from Scout Rötel, an armor shop owner whom he trained with for three years, Klemm-Toole learned to make his own armor for the medieval re-enactment combats in which he participated.
Because he has been making armor since he was 14, Klemm-Toole has learned the artistry and beauty of armor has two facets--the aesthetic and the protective.
“You have to look at how beautiful it is when you first make it before it's been hit and scuffed up,” says Klemm-Toole. ”When you’re fighting with it, it’s really rewarding because you realize how it’s protecting you and how beautiful it is, and you made it.”
The culmination of these two art forms resulted in his most treasured piece: a fifth-century Roman cavalry helmet he made in 2003.
Photo by: Kristin Laughter
Klemm-Toole started making armor at age 14.
“It took me three months to make because the design was intricate, and it was difficult to make. I wanted it to be unique. I’d focus on every little part and give it my utmost attention.”
Today, Klemm-Toole works for Gainesville Welding and Fabrication. He only makes armor for friends since his main focus is welding.
“I’m always thinking of creative things to do while I’m at work,” he says. “It keeps me motivated. I’m constantly inspired by even scrap metal on the floor that they don’t want anymore. It helps me keep my artistic edge.”