Iron Garden Studio, LLC
turning inspiration into art
Iron Garden Studio, Steve Kimme-Hea, Tucson
For over 15 years, the Iron Garden Studio has been designing and creating beautiful, functional works of art. My promise to you is simple: Provide a product that is unique and exceeds your expectations. I pride myself in delivering perfection to all my clients.
I was raised in St. Louis, Missouri, and have been in Tucson since 2001. Before pursuing a 4-year degree, I attended a 2-year technical college and received my AS in Electrical /Electronics Engineering. Part of the curriculum was a welding class, which included theory and practical.
After graduating, I worked as an industrial maintenance electrician for 12 years before returning to school to pursue a degree in Computer-Integrated Manufacturing. This would carry me for another 9 years before I needed a break and resigned from the company I was working for.
Little did I know that 15 years after that welding class, I would purchase my first welding machine and make simple trellises to sell while pondering my next career move. Word got around and soon I was making trellises for neighbors, and friends of neighbors. Within a year my portfolio grew to include gates, railings, metal art, security doors, etc. My hobby was becoming so much more. I returned to work a few months later but still enjoyed my metal work as it provided instant gratification and a feeling of empowerment. I was in charge of me!
In 2008 the economy tanked and I lost my job. With the encouragement of my wife, I created a website and a business: The Iron Garden Studio was born. For the next four years, this would be my livelihood. I was a stay-at-home dad, raising my infant daughter, and working the metal when I could. During her naps, baby-monitor in hand, I would head to my garage to squeeze in some work.
While self-employed, I returned to school to pursue a degree in Environmental, Health, and Safety. At 41 I earned my second Bachelor's, but the economy was still struggling. I maintained course. In 2012 I returned to full-time work in the EHS field, working for a Fortune 100 company. Life just got better.
I enjoy the design aspects of my metal art, but also love getting involved in the hands-on process of forming the metal and welding my pieces. Some pieces are experiments and others are inspired by clients with whom I work. I love to take on new challenges and working with clients to create unique pieces. Just a couple years into my work I had the opportunity to work on a piece for the Tucson Extreme Makeover home. This was a fun and challenging opportunity but I am very thankful for it.
When not creating art, I love spending time with my wife and two children. I am an avid mountain biker and hiker. I also enjoy participating annually in Tough Mudder, Rugged Maniac, and any other mud challenge that I can find. Another annual tradition is the 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo bike race. If it's not obvious, I love the outdoors!
I am available for free client consultations. Please call or email me to make an appointment.
Hours: by appointment
520 . 981 . 1408
​steve@irongardenstudio.com
Iron Garden Studio was founded on the principles of honesty and expert craftsmanship. I value the relationships I develop with each of my clients.
Steven Kimme-Hea
Owner/Artist
AZ Lic.#20582491