We had the good fortune of connecting with Arthur Lapidus and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Arthur, why did you pursue a creative career?
I came to a turning point in my career which afforded me the opportunity to pursue my passion to create artwork utilizing recycled and renewable materials.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I began my art career late in life. My passion to build and create lay dormant for many years. While attending an art show, I came across an artist who created the most unique steampunk sculptures. A spark within me ignited. I returned home and began exploring what I could create. At that time, my only constraints were which tools and materials I had at my disposal. I cannot draw, but I can see in my mind what I want to build. Next, I had to teach myself new skill sets. How to weld, basic forging skills and finishing techniques. So began my personal transformation into becoming a skilled artisan. My most challenging obstacle was confidence. It took time for me to believe that what I was creating could truly be called artwork, as well as marketable commodities. Every piece is one of a kind. Each piece has a part of me in it.

The financial rewards have slowly increased over time. But for me, it’s the feedback and positive response that I get from my customers… the excitement in their eyes, the kind words and enthusiasm that drives me to keep creating, learning and sharing my work.

My artwork has been described as industrial and steampunk. I incorporate vintage tools, gears, nuts and discarded materials, giving them a second life as functional artwork, like tables and stools or a variety of sculptures.

The evolution of my work is directly tied into my constant desire to learn new skill sets. It’s challenging and satisfying to take a vision and produce a finished piece of artwork.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’d start with a ride on the incline up to Mt. Washington. The overlook has a fantastic view of Pittsburgh. It’s great to see our stadiums, landmarks historic buildings and bridges to neighborhoods that makeup the city… all in one snapshot! We would visit the Carnegie and Warhol museums, Phipps Conservatory and a few of our parks. The Vintage Grand Prix is always a good time. And of course, the Three Rivers Arts Festival!
The Grand Concourse for brunch and Primanti Brothers for their classic sandwich. We could enjoy dinner downtown and catch a show at The Benedum or Heinz Hall.
Sports? We’ve got them! Steelers at Heinz Field, the Penguins and baseball at PNC Park.
Pittsburgh is big enough to be exciting and small enough to feel a part of. There are many neighborhoods to explore… Squirrel Hill, Shadyside, Lawrenceville. Each has their own unique vibe.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Part of the evolution of my artwork is directly attributed my my wife, Phyllis. Her support, feedback and her own artistic background has helped me evolve my work to what it is today.

Website: paradoxdesignwerx.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/paradoxdesignwerx

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paradoxdesignwerx/

Image Credits
Paradox Design Werx

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