Bill Brown (b. 1955) is an abstract expressionist sculptor and painter based in Western North Carolina. He primarily works with steel in his sculptures, while his paintings feature acrylic on canvas or panel, often incorporating metal or other materials.
Growing up as the son of sculptor and Penland School of Craft Director William J. Brown, Bill was deeply immersed in the world of art from a young age. In the 1960s and '70s, during Penland’s transformative years, he developed his skills. An early NEA grant allowed him to pursue blacksmithing, which laid the foundation for much of his metalwork today.
Bill's work focuses on exploring form, line, and texture, turning personal experiences into abstract and expressionist art. His mastery of techniques is evident in his use of heavy forging and tactile surfaces that challenge traditional perceptions of metal sculpture. While steel is his primary medium, his pieces often combine other materials such as glass, stone, and various metals.
His art ranges from large-scale outdoor sculptures to more intimate indoor works, and he takes on select commissions in addition to exhibiting in galleries and museums. Bill's work has been widely exhibited in solo and group shows across the U.S., and his sculptures are part of many prestigious collections. He has also curated exhibitions and conducted lectures and workshops throughout his career.