Creating metal sculptures that are both durable and expressive presents a unique set of challenges for artists. The first hurdle is material selection—metals like steel, bronze, or aluminum offer strength but vary in malleability and corrosion resistance. Artists must balance structural integrity with the ability to achieve fine details, often requiring advanced welding or forging techniques.

Weather resistance is another critical factor, as outdoor sculptures face rust, oxidation, and temperature fluctuations. Protective coatings can compromise artistic details, forcing creators to innovate with patinas or alloys. Expressive elements like fluid curves or intricate textures demand precision metalworking, where durability may limit creative freedom.

Time-intensive processes like cold forging or lost-wax casting add complexity, while large-scale pieces require engineering considerations without sacrificing artistic vision. Ultimately, the artist must master both technical metalcraft and aesthetic sensibility to overcome these challenges successfully.