New Mexico’s Man of Steel

By Michael Gardner

Growing up in small-town Jal, New Mexico, made choosing ENMU effortless for Brian Norwood (BS 79). The modest, provincial feel of Portales was comforting and familiar … and his brother, Reed Norwood (Attended), who was already attending Eastern, could show him the ropes.

Brian Norwood

A talented painter and sculptor, Brian is best known for hismonumental metal silhouettes named “The Trail Ahead …” nearJal. This depiction of a cattle drive includes 17 figures of cattleand mounted cowboys created from steel plate. It stretches for400 feet, with cowboys reaching over 20 feet tall. The sculpturehas appeared in New Mexico Magazine and a variety of otherpublications throughout the country.

Brian’s metal sculptures are recognized throughout the state,including “Fortress on the Plains” in Hobbs, which is a lifesizerepresentation of a B-17 bomber. The history enthusiastexplained, “The B-17 is a great example of attempting to makepeople more aware of our local history. Most of the people inHobbs were unaware of the importance and impact of the HobbsArmy Air Field training base during World War II.”

“The Trail Ahead...” is perhaps artist Brian Norwood’s most recognizable piece. It features a group of 17 steel cattle and cowboys standing over 20 feet tall.

In regard to his own history, Brian is well aware that his time atENMU helped prepare him for a successful career.

“ENMU provided me with a well-rounded education and great instructors,” Brian said. “I learned a great deal about art, and my communication instructors taught me how to get my message out. The many lessons I learned at Eastern have provided guidance throughout my life, and I always tell students to pay attention to those who are trying to teach them.”

During one of his drawing classes, ENMU Professor of Art Dale Hamlett recommended that Brian take a welding class in case he was ever interested in metal sculpting. Young Brian ignored that advice, and now, many years later, regrets that decision. Although he does all the design work and cuts out his largescale silhouettes, he requires the services of qualified welders to assemble his giant creations.

“I consider myself primarily a painter, though in recent years painting has taken a back seat to the metal sculptures,” Brian acknowledged. “I don’t make a ton of money, but I enjoy making art very much. And I feel very fortunate for that.”

To learn more, visit BrianNorwoodArt.com.