If you've spent some time in Anchorage, Alaska, chances are you've come across BAFCO metal artwork,
even if you're not familiar with its origin and the story behind it.
Jody Barton, the founder of BAFCO is an experienced steel artisan with nearly two decades of expertise. Located in Anchorage, he specializes in crafting large metal fish, nature scenes, and occasionally works on commercial installations.
One of his notable creations is a massive fish sculpture installed in front of a business in Anchorage. During the delivery, the owner remarked, “Man! That’s a big ass fish!” The comment stuck, and from then on, Jody and his work became known as “the big ass fish people.”
BAFCO, led by Jody Barton and his daughter Bayley, has been creating unique steel fire pit orbs. These
fire pits are made from naval-grade cold-formed spun steel vessels, featuring Art Deco-style legs with
large footpads. Around the top edges of the bowls, original designs are carved. Some of these bowls
have freeform designs, while others depict scenes from nature. For instance, one bowl designed by
Bayley Barton features a surreal dreamscape of swimming octopi.
Alaska's long winters provide the perfect backdrop for the Bartons to design and craft these fire pit orbs
in their workshop. When summer arrives, they hitch up their trailer and travel around the Western
United States, visiting friends and attending community fairs and farmers markets in search of the ideal
place to showcase their unique creations, which typically retail for $1,100 to $1,600.
Creating each fire pit is a labor-intensive process that involves darkening the metal through controlled
burning and sealing it with linseed oil. Some owners prefer to let their fire pits develop a rustic patina
and then reseal them. Each finished fire pit is christened with a beer toast by the Bartons.
The Bartons take pride in crafting one-of-a-kind pieces, avoiding mass production. They enjoy
collaborating with customers and surprising them with their creations. Often, they incorporate hidden
images like birds and animals into their artwork.
In addition to fire pits, the Bartons make use of every scrap by fashioning large steel orbs that can be
illuminated or used as small fire pits, creating an airy and intricate quality with their quarter inch-thick
steel.
Jody Barton and Bayley Barton find joy in their work and treasure the opportunity to collaborate as a
father-daughter team. Their journey not only allows them to create art but also introduces them to
interesting people and fellow artists during their travels. They are continuously learning and eagerly look
forward to returning to their craft.
Let’s see some of their famous and amazing artworks.
1. Copper King
This impressive sculpture is a representation of a large King Salmon. Jody Barton created it for The State
Fish Hatchery on Ship Creek. The hatchery wanted a visual portrayal of the life cycle of a King Salmon,
and Jody began with the final stage, which is depicted here. You can view this artwork at the hatchery,
and if you haven't already, it's worth visiting this facility in Anchorage, as it's an asset for the community.
2. Scarp Orb
These orbs are crafted from the leftover pieces that result from making their fire bowls. The one in the
picture has a diameter of about three feet, and it's illuminated with a plain white light.
3. Lola!
This is made from Copper Sheet and old transmission parts. It is available to purchase and on display at
Anchorage Brewing Company.
To truly immerse yourself in BAFCO's creativity and distinctive style, visit their website at
www.bafco.biz. There, you can explore not only their wall art but also their functional art, including
astonishingly large and impressive fire pits that are sure to leave an impression.
