Keith Kaziak

What I do at the Chazen: I help maintain the day-to-day operations of the museum.

My Hometown: Wausau, Wisconsin

On Saturdays you’ll find me: Spending time cuddling with our orange tabby Maggy and working in the studio.

My alma maters: University of Wisconsin–Madison, MFA; and University of Minnesota, BFA

My college major: Sculpture

My favorite artwork at the Chazen: Untitled (1962) by Julius Schmidt, a cast-iron sculpture, is a compelling reminder of the medium’s rich history. Often referred to as the “grandfather of cast iron sculpture,” Schmidt was instrumental in bringing cast iron into the realm of academic art after World War II. His pioneering efforts in developing cupolas (iron-melting furnaces) and refining foundry processes laid the groundwork for countless artists and students—including myself.

As someone who has been casting ferrous and non-ferrous sculpture since 2003, encountering Schmidt’s work in person was both moving and affirming. His technical innovations and creative legacy have had a direct impact on my teaching and creative research. Seeing his sculpture not only celebrates the legacy of contemporary cast-iron practice but also reaffirms the value of hands-on, material-based education in the arts.

My favorite museum other than the Chazen: Museo Nacional del Prado

Last job before the Chazen: Postdoctoral Teaching Scholar in the Department of Art, Art History & Design at the University of Notre Dame, where I taught undergraduate courses in sculpture and foundry.