Bruce Niemi is a second-generation sculptor, studying under his father, Frank J. Niemi (an ornamental iron artist and self-taught sculptor). He learned how to weld at his father's studio in 1968, from the age of 12 until he was 18; his father was a major influence on his style and the craftsmanship that goes into a Niemi sculpture, as well as being taught to look at the world differently than most. Niemi entered Northern Illinois University in 1974 and graduated in 1981 with a BFA in Sculpture. He has been welding and creating sculptures for 53 years, full-time for 35 years.  To date Niemi has 55 permanent public sculptures across the United States and Europe.