Source: www.dubaicityguide.com
Steven J. Backman, a San Francisco native has been designing sculptures from toothpicks since he was a child. What turned out to be his hobby soon turned in to a passion for creating miniatures of world famous monuments.
His latest work of art is the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world standing tall at 828 metres. From a replica of the Empire State Building to a thirteen feet long likeness of the Golden Gate Bridge, Steven has received worldwide recognition for his creativity. During an interview with Sharad Agarwal, CEO of DubaiCityGuide.com, Steven stated, “The miniature replica I created of Burj Khalifa took me 7 hours to create and a bucket of patience. As far as I know, it is the world’s smallest replica of the world’s tallest building.”
Steven’s passion for toothpicks has led him to create other amazing sculptures, including a four and one half foot long electric powered radio-controlled yacht he meticulously designed from 10,000 toothpicks.It features a double toothpick rudder system which allows the boat to glide swiftly in all directions in appropriate bodies of water. Steven is continuing his legacy by creating a new series of modern abstract toothpick sculptures.
About Steven J. Backman
While attending San Francisco State University in the fall of 1984, where Steven later received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Industrial Arts, he decided to design a San Francisco cable car for an art project using toothpicks and glue. This was one way in which he knew how to show his appreciation for these mobile historical landmarks. Shortly after, Steven established his toothpick art business named “Landmarks of San Francisco” which he still presently operates.
Many cable cars later, Steven decided to create a toothpick sculpture of the Golden Gate Bridge. He began this long task in January of 1985 and completed it in April of 1987. It turned out to be thirteen feet in length and consists of 30,000 toothpicks. Steven gained a lot of media attention for his participation in the 50th Anniversary Celebration of the Golden Gate Bridge, including a guest appearance on “The Afternoon Show.” Most recently, he was interviewed on “Good Day New York” and “CBS Sunday Morning.” In addition, Steven has been featured in several newspaper and magazine articles worldwide. Besides receiving proclamations from San Francisco Mayors Dianne Feinstein, Willie Brown and Gavin Newsom, his bridge sculpture was certified by the District Engineer of the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District in December of 1990. It is currently on display at “Ripley’s Believe It or Not!” Museum in Hollywood, California.
Steven’s motto, “The Essence of Patience,” truly exemplifies his drive and determination towards creating unique and unforgettable one-of-a-kind pieces of art. Steven feels that making these sculptures is as relaxing as lying on a secluded island at peace with himself and his surroundings. He is truly a perfectionist at heart and takes much pride in his toothpick works. Steven definitely gives a new dimension to the arts.
Some of the other celebrated works of Steven are showcased on DubaiCityGuide.com at http://www.dubaicityguide.com/site/stevenjbackman/
Contact Information:
Steven J. Backman
San Francisco, California, USA
(415) 225-1156
Email: sbackman7@aol.com
http://www.toothpickart.com
In Dubai, UAE
Sharad Agarwal
CEO, DubaiCityGuide.com
+9714 3312627
Email: dcg@cyber-gear.com
http://www.dubaicityguide.com
