Steel & Spirit: The Creative Journey of Gina Rossi
July 31st, 2025
Gina Rossi, Midtown Second Saturday’s August featured artist, has forged a fearless path through Sacramento’s art scene. A certified welder and passionate educator, Gina blends hands-on creativity with technical skill to bring bold, community-driven art to life in Midtown and beyond.
For over a decade, Midtown has been home to her urban studio and the heart of her work, from early days as “the bike rack girl” to teaching welding and mentoring young makers. Gina’s involvement in Midtown Second Saturday and upcoming Urban Dreams Art Experience from August 9 – September 14, has helped solidify her place as a key contributor to Sacramento’s creative pulse.
In our recent interview, Gina shared her artistic journey, the impact of public art, and how surviving leukemia deepened her sense of purpose. Read on to discover how she’s turning steel into stories and shaping a more connected community and visit her website here to see more of her work and learn about her welding classes.
Can you share a bit about your background and what initially drew you to pursue art as a passion or career?
I’ve always approached creativity with a curious mind and an unconventional spirit—glue guns, paints, and found objects were my playground. For example, I would make abstract sculptures from hanger wire & mismatched socks. “So that’s where my other sock went.” My passion naturally evolved into a fascination with metalwork, leading me to become a certified welder. Now, I forge, fabricate, and run plasma CNC machines and hydraulic benders to shape 2D and 3D art pieces that celebrate both beauty and technique. Teaching welding—whether artistic or industrial—has deepened my connection to the community and youth. It gives my art purpose and transforms it into a tool for mentoring the next wave of makers.
How would you describe your artistic style and what sets your work apart from other artists?
My artistic style is bold, boundary-pushing, and unapologetically hands-on. As a metal sculptor and fabricator, I dive headfirst into the creative flow—music blasting, tools in hand—transforming raw materials into expressive, functional, or public art. What sets my work apart is the immersive experience I cultivate in my studio. It’s more than a workspace; it’s a vibrant, inclusive hub where creativity thrives and people are invited to join the journey. I teach welding, introduce fused glass techniques, and mentor budding artists to help them realize their own visions. The energy, the collaboration, and the freedom to explore—those are the elements that give my art its soul.
I first got involved with Second Saturday years ago by setting up my welder next to LowBrau in October, creating Halloween-themed metal art that caught the attention of curious art lovers. At the same time, I was laying the foundation for my eclectic urban studio in Midtown and showing work in local galleries. Second Saturday quickly became more than just an art walk—it became a heartbeat of the community. The energy, the music, the families exploring Sacramento’s creative side all made me feel part of something vibrant and meaningful. Now, I’ve been able to open my own gallery, teach workshops, host demos, and offer my space to fellow artists as a united platform for expression. As makers, we’re woven together, each thread contributing to the colorful cloth of our shared artistic story.
What is it like to participate in the Urban Dreams Art Experience and be a part of a group of amazing sculptures from all over?
Being part of the Urban Dreams Art Experience in Sacramento is an absolute honor. As a local artist, it’s surreal to showcase my work alongside sculptors whose creations have lit up Burning Man—it truly feels like stepping into a wonderland for large-scale artists. This opportunity has not only boosted my confidence but affirmed the power and reach of my art. It’s a dream standing in the midst of a sculptural renaissance. I want to shout from the rooftops: come to Sacramento and wander through Midtown, where incredible sculptures spark imagination and bring our streets to life. It’s not just art—it’s community, passion, and magic woven into steel.
How long have you lived in Midtown?
I’ve live in Sacramento for many years, and for over a decade I’ve been lucky to call Midtown the home of my studio. This neighborhood has been the heartbeat of my artistic evolution. My Midtown studio is not just where I work-its where inspiration lives.
What impact has living in Midtown had on your creative process or artistic style?
Creating art in Midtown has been a transformative experience for me as a metal artist. The neighborhood has served as a dynamic launchpad for my work—I started off installing creative bike racks throughout Midtown. I was known as “the bike rack girl”, Midtown was my creative haven and an open canvas to create, grow and educate. Midtown is like open hands that I sink inside and soar with my creative passion giving me purpose and self-existence as a creator. I’m so blessed to be part of Midtown’s diverse cultural artistic tribe.
What are some of your aspirations or goals as an artist, both in terms of your personal growth and the impact you hope to make through your art?
My aspiration is to create public art that sparks connection—bringing people together and inspiring meaningful conversations within their communities. I’m especially drawn to crafting interactive sculptures that invite engagement, allowing individuals to physically and emotionally connect with the piece.
Whether it’s a visually striking bike rack or a large-scale installation in a public space, I aim to blend functionality and creativity to make art more accessible and impactful. I’m also passionate about STEAM education and love using my work to empower young makers, showing them how art and science intertwine. Through these efforts, I hope to touch lives and make a lasting difference—not just through metal, but across all creative mediums.
How does participating in events like Midtown Second Saturday allow you to connect with your audience or community in ways that are unique compared to other platforms or venues?
Midtown’s Second Saturday connects me directly with the community—through art, music, food, and more. Having a studio here during a time of creative growth opens doors for commissions and collaboration. Teaching lets me mentor students from local schools, offering hands-on experience in sculpture and welding. Sacramento’s vibrant mix of cultures and ideas helps my business thrive while staying rooted in the city’s creative pulse.
Anything else you would like to share?
In 2021, I was diagnosed with leukemia and faced staggering odds of survival—but I’m still here, living proof that anything is possible. That experience didn’t just test my strength; it reshaped my spirit. As an artist, it gave me a deeper understanding of human connection, purpose, and the power of creation.
This Midtown Second Saturday Artist Feature is brought to you by Live Midtown Sponsors: Demmon Partners/16 Powerhouse, 19J Midtown, The Press at Midtown Quarter Apartments, and 17Central
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