About

Patrick Hannigan started Barnfunk in 2019 as a side project to compliment his primary business, Nice Nests.  

"There's artisty in Nice Nests, but there's also rules because each Nest is a functional, science-based, species-specific nesting habitat." said Hannigan. "With Barnfunk there's no rules - it's just pure free-range creative fun."

The primary materials used in Barnfunk are salvaged wood and scrap metal along with old agricultural implements, mining and logging equipment. Odd bits of hardware, climbing gear, and other random human artifacts are commonly-used elements.

Building with found materials is nothing new to Hannigan. In 2001 he began a decade-long homesteading project that began with an outhouse built from scavenged scrap and culminated in the Rattlesnake House. The entirely owner-designed and built structure was clad in graffiti-covered steel siding salvaged from the Alder Mill, a hangout spot for Methow teens since it was abandoned in the 1950s.

“I’ve always been drawn to the corrosion, textures, oxidation, and patinas that come with time - they tell a story," said Hannigan. "That's the common thread through all the different stuff I've built over the years."

Barnfunk techniques include cutting, welding, torching, and experimenting with various paints, pigments, patina, and homemade reactives. On some projects Hannigan uses digital design and CNC plasma cutting. 

Hannigan’s most important artistic influence is his mother Melinda Hannigan, who died in 2016. She was a notable oil painter whose works appeared in galleries and museums across the U.S. 

Hannigan now lives in the midst of an ongoing remodel project on the Chewuch River outside Winthrop. His place was featured on HGTV's House Hunters program, labeled as the "Cosmetic Nightmare by the river." A big draw for Hannigan was the extensive boneyard of old metal on site, which Hannigan refers to affectionately as the "Resource Sector.”

"I'm doing my part to help keep local property values low," said Hannigan.  

You can find Hannigan at his Twispworks studio by chance or appointment. For project or commission inquiries, visit the Contact page.