Tijs Dragtsma (1992) - The Mandalorian in Brass

The Mandalorian in Brass

The Mandalorian in Brass is a sculptural work within the Art with Nails series by Tijs Dragtsma.
This work is part of a limited edition.

A luminous and sculptural portrait of one of the most iconic figures in modern pop culture.

No paint. No print. No ink. The mysterious presence of the Mandalorian emerges through structure, shadow and reflection. From a distance, the silhouette is instantly recognisable. Up close, the image dissolves into a golden rhythm, each brass nail catching light against deep matte black acrylic glass.

Solid brass meets fragile acrylic glass. A dialogue between strength and vulnerability that echoes both the armour and the myth of the Mandalorian.

As light shifts, the portrait transforms. From the side, the work becomes sharp, sculptural and dimensional. From the front, the figure returns as an unmistakable icon. Controlled. Silent. Enduring.

The image is not painted or printed. It is constructed through impact. Each brass nail is placed with precision and intention, functioning as a structural element within a controlled spatial composition.

Framed in a handmade Dutch float frame in matte black wood with a brushed gold edge, and signed and numbered on the reverse, this work stands as a contemporary homage to one of the most enduring figures in modern mythology.

About Art with Nails

Art with Nails is a self developed artistic medium by Tijs Dragtsma in which imagery emerges through the precise placement of robust nails in brass of black steel. Rather than applying pigment, Dragtsma constructs form through repetition, rhythm and controlled force.

The works are built on white or black acrylic glass panels. This material choice is essential to the language of the series. The hardness of the metal and the fragility of the acrylic glass create a constant field of tension within the making process.

Each nail functions as an independent structural unit within a larger spatial composition. Together they generate sculptural depth, material contrast and a shifting interaction with light and shadow that changes with perspective and illumination.

The process demands technical control and physical precision. A single incorrect strike can cause immediate and irreversible damage to the acrylic glass. This risk is not incidental. It is part of the discipline and intensity embedded in the work.

Within the series, works are produced as unique pieces or as limited editions, depending on the concept and artistic direction.

About the Artist . Tijs Dragtsma

Tijs Dragtsma is a Dutch contemporary artist and founder of TD Fine Art Studio. His practice operates at the intersection of material, structure and light, with a strong focus on developing distinct artistic languages rather than following established traditions.

He is widely recognised for his Art with Nails series, in which hundreds to thousands of steel or brass nails form sculptural portraits that transform with light and viewing angle. Through precision and repetition, he translates digital mapping into physical presence.

Since beginning his artistic practice in 2024, his works have entered private collections across Europe, Asia and the United States, and have been presented internationally. His work is driven by experimentation, technical control and a long term vision centred on material integrity and spatial experience.

All works are conceived and produced in his studio in Enkhuizen, The Netherlands.

Specifications

Title: The Mandalorian in Brass
Series: Art with Nails
Edition: Limited edition
Medium: Brass nails on matte black acrylic glass
Frame: Handmade Dutch float frame in matte black wood with brushed gold edge. Ready to hang
Condition: New. Signed and numbered on the reverse
Includes: Certificate of Authenticity (COA)
Dimensions (incl. frame): 53 × 53 × 4 cm

This artwork is an independent artistic tribute. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by or produced in collaboration with Lucasfilm or The Walt Disney Company.