Vernon
Skip Willits earned a degree in studio art with an emphasis
in art education from Western Illinois University in 1978.
His predominant medium is welded metal, using materials such
as steel, aluminum, and bronze with various techniques from
arc to torch welding. In 1983 he completed and placed "Ring
of Life," his first large-scale work. Since then he has
created and placed dozens of public and private indoor and
outdoor sculptures locally and throughout the United States
and Europe.
Mr.
Willits has been a predominant metal sculptor in this region
for a decade. He has been awarded numerous grants and commissions
and his work is exhibited in many fine art galleries. He designs,
welds, and places his metal sculptures. This multi-faceted
approach allows him to be familiar with the materials, cost,
weight, and proper building and placement techniques that
are important in the overall commission.
