Charles Volkema
Charles Volkema is the hands and mind behind Metal Mind — a one-man creative studio dedicated to transforming reclaimed metal, vintage tools, industrial pipes, and salvaged components into functional works of art.
Every piece begins with a hunt for the right materials — old wrenches from a mechanic's shop, vintage vacuum tubes from an antique store, industrial fittings from a salvage yard. Charles sees potential where others see junk, giving forgotten objects a second life as stunning steampunk lamps and sculptures.
No two pieces are ever alike. Each lamp and sculpture is a unique conversation piece that blends industrial grit with artistic elegance, creating dramatic lighting and shadow effects that transform any room.
Awards & Recognition
Award of Distinction — St. Johns River Art Fest
Sanford, FL
Recognized for exceptional artistry in mixed media and sculptural lighting at the professionally juried St. Johns River Festival of the Arts in historic downtown Sanford. The festival features over 150 carefully selected fine artists from across the country and awards $15,000 in prizes.
Featured Artist — St. Johns River Festival of the Arts
2026 Season · Sanford, FL
Selected as a featured artist for the 15th Annual St. Johns River Festival, April 25-26, 2026 in historic downtown Sanford.
Reclaimed Materials
Old wrenches, vintage vacuum tubes, industrial pipes, gears, springs, and salvaged metal — every piece starts with materials that have a history. Nothing goes to waste.
Handcrafted Process
Each lamp and sculpture is welded, shaped, and assembled entirely by hand. There are no molds, no mass production — just one artist, one piece at a time.
Functional Art
These aren't just sculptures — they're working lamps that transform your space. Edison bulbs cast a warm glow through metal and wire, creating dramatic light and shadow.