To most, unwanted parts and metal scraps belong in the garbage. But give Jim Griffin a welding tool, and he’ll create a work of art.

Griffin is known to teach auto mechanics and lawn and garden, but this school year, he introduced something new.

In the garage and the gated garden, results of such work can be found.  Strewn about the garage, little birds with shovel and rake-like features peer out from several directions.  Adjacent to a plot of seeds and leafy growth, there’s a model of the Golden Gate Bridge used to liven the campus’s garden. 

Griffin has set up a hands-on learning experience in forming metal sculptures, an activity that several of his students can’t help but “go nuts” over. This opportunity allows students to familiarize themselves with tools and develop skills toward auto mechanics.

It was eight years ago when the teacher was first inspired to create his own sculptures.  While observing other sculptures, he thought to himself, “I can do that.”  His property is the true domain for his “strange critters” as his classes only reveal a mere glimpse of the massive collection he has at home.  From unique fountains to animal figurines, Griffin’s various sculptures decorate the inside and outside of his house.

However, most of the metal artwork on campus are not made by his hands. “The kids really just got into it,” he said.  The teacher provides most of the materials for making sculptures as he is “always on the scrounge” finding pieces here and there. Junior Tony Am’s metal flamingo is a work in progress. The student tries to cut out several triangular pieces to form a beak. He then straps on a face mask to protect himself as sparks start to fly.

Among his many works, he calls his BBQ engine quite a conversation piece. Its exterior resembles a Chevy V8 engine. But when opened, there is a grilling rack, along with other components.  When complete, this BBQ will be fully functional.  There are several other BBQs that are being worked on in class. Along with Am, freshman Maria Hernandez has the responsibility in decorating the grills, while sophomore Julian De Los Santos attaches a hose to a propane which connects to the base of the BBQ. “You have to be creative,” said De Los Santos. Am adds, with a laugh, “You gotta get dirty.”

The emergence of sculptures has sparked teachers’ interest on campus.  Biology teacher Marcus Sherman wants to purchase a crown and an orange metal bird, but Griffin feels that he’ll have trouble replicating it due to the lack of materials 

Griffin originally wanted to sell his sculptures. But in the end he would say, “just take it,” giving away dozens, selling none. He eventually plans to sell the sculptures online in order to raise money for a promised class trip to the snow. He has taken students on trip during previous years, but he is unsure if he can swing it.