About Me

Iron Garden Studio, Steve Kimme-Hea, Tucson

Iron Garden Studio Custom Metal Art

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/Contact

Hours: by appointment

520 . 981 . 1408

steve@irongardenstudio.com

Mission Statement

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

About Me