About The Artist

As a Colorado Native, I believe in hardwork and due diligence.

With that being said, I also believe in having an extremely good time and enjoying what You do. Hello and thanks for your interest in my art. I'm Chris VandeSande, owner and designer for Dark-River Metal Design. 

I truly enjoy all things Metal and the transformation it yields. I like the idea of taking something ordinary and transforming it into something tangible and meaningful.

Beauty in the natural world seems to inspire me. Many inspirations speak to me, but none more than the majestic power of nature. I enjoy the outdoors, immensely, thus my true inspiration. If I'm not in the shop, you'll find me in the woods.

I'm proud to offer our authentic service of Hand Cut & Crafted Metal Plasma cut Art. Each piece is truly unique, eye catching and one of a kind.

As an artist we dedicate ourselves to your artwork. If you are looking for a unique Metal design that will enrich your interior or exterior, you are at the right place. Thanks for your interest!

Metal Art FAQ

  • I primarily work with high-quality steel and aluminum, chosen specifically for their durability and visual appeal. For outdoor pieces, I use weather-resistant steel that develops a beautiful natural patina over time, or I can apply protective finishes to maintain the original look. Indoor pieces are sealed with a clear coat to preserve their finish. All my work is built to last for years with minimal maintenance.

  • Absolutely! While I have a collection of original designs available for immediate purchase, I love bringing custom visions to life. Whether you have a specific design in mind, need a family name piece, business logo, or want to incorporate personal elements, I can work with you to create something unique. Just share your ideas, photos, or sketches, and we'll collaborate on a design that perfectly fits your space and style.

  • I create pieces ranging from small 12" decorative accents to large 8' statement sculptures. Pricing varies based on size, design complexity, material choice, and finish. Small pieces typically start around $[X], medium wall art ranges from $[X-X], and large custom installations are quoted individually. I'm happy to work within various budgets and can often suggest design modifications to meet your needs.

  • Ready-made pieces from my existing collection can ship within 3-5 business days. Custom projects typically take 2-4 weeks from design approval to completion, depending on size and complexity. During busy seasons, timelines may extend slightly. I always communicate clearly about timeframes upfront and keep you updated throughout the process. Rush orders may be available for an additional fee.

  • Yes! All pieces come with appropriate mounting hardware for easy installation. Smaller wall pieces include keyhole hangers or brackets, while larger pieces come with heavy-duty mounting systems. For local customers, I'm happy to offer installation assistance on larger or more complex pieces. I also provide detailed installation instructions with each order, and I'm always available to answer questions to ensure your artwork is displayed safely and beautifully.

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