thrilled to announce
We are thrilled to announce that Brett Barney, President of American Fine Arts Foundry, has been nominated for the 2025 Compassionate Leaders Network Award—a recognition that celebrates individuals who lead with empathy, integrity, and a commitment to meaningful impact.
For those who know Brett or have worked alongside him, this nomination comes as no surprise. Over the past two decades, he has established a leadership style that not only fosters innovation and excellence but also deeply values human connection, collaboration, and artistic integrity.
Leading with Compassion and Vision
Brett’s approach to leadership is rooted in empathy and respect—qualities that have made American Fine Arts Foundry a hub for world-class artists, architects, and designers. Under his guidance, the foundry has evolved from a traditional bronze casting studio into a full-service creative partner for monumental public art, large-scale sculpture, and integrated architectural installations.
Rather than imposing rigid workflows, Brett listens. He meets artists and architects where they are and builds bridges between vision and execution. This kind of leadership invites trust and inspires teams to achieve more than they thought possible. Compassion, in Brett’s world, is not a soft sentiment—it’s a strategic strength.
Monumental Public Art: Sculptures that Define Spaces
American Fine Arts Foundry is renowned for its role in creating monumental public art that is both awe-inspiring and enduring. Working closely with some of the world’s most visionary artists, the foundry transforms ideas into large-scale sculptures that engage and inspire the public. These installations grace parks, city centers, cultural institutions, and even iconic landmarks, representing the pinnacle of artistic achievement and technical expertise.
One such project includes the collaboration on the monumental “Imagine” cubes by renowned sculptor Bill Mack. The “Imagine Falling Blocks – Unveiling” at the Four Seasons Hotel in Minneapolis showcases American Fine Arts Foundry’s unparalleled ability to execute massive works that harmonize with their surroundings while making powerful artistic statements. Each project exemplifies the balance of creativity and structural engineering that the foundry has mastered over decades.
A Culture of Professionalism
At the core of Brett’s success is an unwavering commitment to professionalism. Every project—from civic memorials to architecturally embedded art—benefits from his meticulous attention to detail, clear communication, and ethical standards. Whether collaborating with top-tier architectural firms or helping emerging sculptors realize their first public work, Brett upholds a culture of precision and reliability.
It is this deep sense of accountability and excellence that has earned the foundry international recognition, and it’s precisely what makes Brett’s leadership style so impactful. He creates environments where creativity can thrive because artists and clients know they are in capable, caring hands.
Building Legacy Through Art
More than a business leader, Brett is a steward of legacy. His work ensures that public spaces are filled with enduring stories cast in bronze—artworks that future generations will encounter, question, and be inspired by. His commitment to long-lasting craftsmanship is matched only by his dedication to the people behind the projects.
The 2025 Compassionate Leaders Network Award recognizes individuals who exemplify leadership that makes the world better—not just more efficient or profitable. Brett Barney stands as a model of that ideal: a compassionate leader who has quietly and consistently elevated both the field of public art and the lives of those who create it.
