Click on the image below to see it larger.
Can
a wind chime be art?
Back in the early 60's, Andy Warhol showed the world that
cans of soup could be art, so of course a wind chime can be
art. But most are not. Most are tubes, and are designed
primarily for sound, not looks.
One of the first things you may wish to consider when
choosing a wind chime is that the wind is not always
blowing, so perhaps choose something that is as pleasing to
the eye as to the ear. Such a chime can even be hung in the
home or office as kinetic art.
Sound
is important
Most high-end chimes are manufactured from aluminum, and if
they are large, they are bound to be loud. What might sound
impressive in the store may lead to neighbor complaints and
a headache.
If you have a very large property, and plan to hang your
chimes far from the house, the noise generated by large
aluminum chimes might be okay.
Otherwise, take pity on your neighbors, and on yourself,
and choose something more suitable for your environment.
You want pleasure, not pain.
Why
copper?
Copper looks fantastic, and the sound is pleasant, not
horribly loud.
Copper ages beautifully, and there is no paint to chip.
What
about cheap wind chimes?
There are an abundance of cheap wind chimes available. They
might be okay for short lived enjoyment. Most often within
one season they become an eyesore.
It's depressing to see a set of falling apart, rusty,
broken wind chimes. So if you opt for cheap chimes, keep an
eye on them and replace them as soon as they start to fall
apart, likely every year.
If you are concerned about the environment, it is best to
avoid 'throw away' wind chimes and other cheaply made home
and garden decor.
Conclusion
Summing up, when choosing a wind chime you may wish to
remember the wind is not always blowing, and consider
investing in not just a wind chime but a work of art.
Invest wisely, and enjoy years of pleasure.