Weld Queen: The Russian artist bringing metal masterpieces to Burning Man 2024
This year, the renowned Burning Man festival will once again feature the work of Alexandra Weld Queen, a Russian artist whose real name is Alexandra. Born in Kislovodsk, she has earned global recognition as the «Queen of Welding,» transforming metal and rebar into exquisite sculptures.
RUSSIAN CALIFORNIA — Alexandra’s artistic journey is a testament to dedication and passion. It began in 2007 with painting, but it was her discovery of sculpture and metalwork that truly ignited her artistic spirit. Since 2008, she has lived and worked in Moscow, tirelessly pursuing her art while also building a career as a development director in the trade and industrial sector.
To refine her metalworking skills, Alexandra pursued further education. From 2009 to 2010, she studied at the Institute of Contemporary Art, and from 2010 to 2012, she trained at the Moscow Polytechnic College, specializing in welding technology. In 2015, she created her first central sculpture, The Meditating Cat Tikhvami, and adopted the artistic pseudonym Weld Queen, marking the beginning of her full-fledged career as a sculptor.
Since then, Weld Queen has completed over 40 sculptural projects, including prominent public art pieces such as Brothers and Petunets in Kudykin Mountain Park in the Lipetsk region, Mother in Mira Park in Novosibirsk, Aerodrome for Cloud Hovering at Burning Man 2019, and Sun-Drum in Murmansk in 2021. Her works are in private collections in Russia, France, and the USA.
Currently, Weld Queen is preparing for the upcoming Burning Man, which will take place in 13 days in the Black Rock Desert of Nevada, USA. This year, for the first time, she is creating her installation directly in the United States, working with a team of volunteers in Reno, Nevada.
In a recent interview with the Russian California newspaper, Weld Queen revealed details about her new piece for Burning Man 2024.
Titled High Six!, this 9.5-foot-tall interactive public art installation features a steel metaphone, a street musical instrument resembling a steel tongue drum, with note petals embedded in the palm. The piece’s intricate geometric design reflects a neural system, symbolizing the cosmic web that connects us all.
This welcoming gesture powerfully reminds us of the importance of trust and openness toward the world, diverse cultures, and fellow human beings. We reinforce our shared connection by embracing our differences, celebrating our uniqueness, and standing together as one.
To experience her art firsthand, secure access to Burning Man 2024!
