Creating the illusion of weight distribution in cantilevered metal sculptures is a fascinating blend of artistry and engineering. Artists employ several techniques to achieve this effect, ensuring the sculpture appears balanced despite its asymmetrical or gravity-defying design.

1. Center of Gravity Mastery: Artists meticulously calculate the sculpture's center of gravity, often shifting weight toward the base or using counterbalances. Hidden weights or hollow sections may be incorporated to redistribute mass invisibly.

2. Material Selection: Lightweight metals like aluminum or titanium are strategically used for extended cantilevered sections, while denser materials like steel anchor the base. This contrast creates visual tension without compromising stability.

3. Visual Deception: Clever design elements trick the eye—tapered forms, open frameworks, or directional lines guide perception away from the actual weight distribution. The human brain interprets these cues as balance.

4. Structural Reinforcement: Internal armatures or tension cables provide unseen support, allowing seemingly impossible extensions. These are often disguised within the artwork's aesthetic elements.

5. Dynamic Composition: Many artists intentionally create imbalance in secondary elements to heighten the illusion of precariousness, making the overall stability more impressive.

The magic lies in making these technical solutions invisible, allowing viewers to experience the sculpture as a pure artistic statement that defies physics. Contemporary artists continue pushing boundaries, using advanced materials and computational design to create ever more daring cantilevered works.