Patinated steel, gilded steel, and enamel

From James Bearden’s Cathedral series, Mystical Galaxy Chimes explores rhythm, balance, and architectural form through a linear composition of patinated and gilded steel accented with vivid enamel elements. Rising from a substantial steel base, the work combines textured cast surfaces with slender blackened rods and geometric forms suspended in space.

The contrast between the gilded surfaces and the saturated blue enamel details is central to the composition, while the open framework and asymmetrical arrangement recall both architectural scaffolding and musical notation. The work also possesses a subtle sonic quality, suggesting the resonance of chimes suspended in space. As with much of Bearden’s work, the sculpture reflects an interest in structure, materiality, and process.

James Bearden (American, b. 1964) is an abstract sculptor whose work explores the intersection of sculpture, architecture, and functional design. Working primarily in metal, Bearden has produced a number of ongoing series, including Cathedral, Assemblage, Voids, and Lunar Blooms. His work is held in corporate, municipal, and prominent private collections.