Constantin Hapaianu is a renowned sculptor and metal fabricator with 50 years of experience creating dynamic stainless steel sculptures. Born in Romania and seeking asylum in the United States in 1988, his work reflects the intersection of personal narrative, cultural transformation, and artistic innovation. With a background in industrial welding and fabrication, his sculptures are a powerful exploration of resilience, displacement, and the transformative power of art.

Constantin's artistic journey began in Romania, where he trained in welding and metal fabrication at the Deva Trade School for three years, followed by five years of higher education. Early in his career, he worked in the industrial sector, specializing in welding machinery for cement factories and mining operations. This technical foundation in heavy metal fabrication gave him the skills necessary to pursue more creative endeavors.

After immigrating to the U.S., Constantin worked for a Seattle aluminum furniture company, Dani Leigh, refining his design and fabrication skills. He also specialized in custom welding for Heiser, a local trucking company, where he was involved in many aspects of custom truck design, fabrication and assembly for major clients such as Boeing and Budweiser. Throughout these years, he continued to develop his artistic practice, working on sculptures and design projects on the side.

Today, Constantin is known for creating a wide range of one of a kind sculptures and functional art, including:

• Kinetic sculptures
• Fountains
• Sculptural railings (custom, abstract, and industrial)
• Staircases
• Awnings
• Planter boxes
• Stainless steel furniture
• Custom signs

Almost exclusively working with stainless steel, Constantin values the material for its strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal. He often incorporates glass, brass, copper, and other metals into his designs. His signature technique involves meticulously polishing the metal with a hand grinder, giving each piece a unique, reflective finish that enhances its kinetic movement. Each sculpture is carefully conceived, often starting with paper sketches or models, ultimately followed by the use of advanced cutting tools such as plasma and water-jet. A TIG welder, specialized saws and hand tools are used for assembly and final production.

Constantin's work is characterized by sleek, contemporary designs that showcase both his technical skill and artistic vision. Over the past three decades living in the Seattle area, he has collaborated with architects, city planners, and community groups on public and private installations, cementing his reputation as a skilled communicator and collaborator.

In addition to sculpture, custom railings, and other fabrication; Constantin has expanded his practice into contemporary furniture design and large-scale kinetic water fountains, which demonstrate his innovative spirit and versatility as an artist. His public and private installations have been showcased worldwide, earning recognition from collectors, architects, and art enthusiasts alike. Recently, he has been working on a new series of monumental kinetic water fountains, pushing the boundaries of scale and functionality in his art. These works are a bold new direction for Constantin, combining his passion for movement, fluidity, and wonder.

Looking ahead, Constantin plans to continue exploring new horizons in his work, expanding his artistic expression and pushing the limits of his medium to create ever more innovative and meaningful designs. His sculptures and installations can be found in locations around the globe.