Speaking of the Arts: Allen Peterson

Allen Peterson is an Atlanta artist who creates architectural metalwork and other custom commissions. (Eliza Peterson)

Atlanta artist Allen Peterson is known for his steel welding and metal sculptures. He uses many different kinds of materials to make his artwork–metals, paints, specialized plexiglass, paper and even beeswax.

“I got started in art as soon as I would old enough to hold onto a magic marker,” said Peterson. “I realized I was blessed to have parents who were supportive of my choice to make a career out of art.”

He was accepted to be the artist-in-residence at Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark in Birmingham, Alabama, in his twenties. While at Sloss Furnaces, he learned how to make his own cast iron art, exhibit, and teach metal workshops to the public.

“Honeybees have especially inspired my work for many years. I’m interested in the sheer complexity of what bees can do…they’re like bugs with superpowers,” said Peterson.

One of his favorite art galleries in Atlanta is MINT, the non-profit which promotes emerging artists. His work can also be found at different locations around the city like the Kirkwood beehive and the Northwest Atlanta globe.

You can find more information about his artwork here.