Buffalo Artist Brings Hand-Cut Paper Designs to Life in Textured Metal

Rigidized® Metals collaborated with Buffalo artist Kari Achatz to transform her intricate, hand-cut paper artwork into a permanent metal installation at Highmark Stadium. Inspired by Achatz’s connection to Buffalo, the energy of a Bills game and the iconic Bills Zubaz print, Between the Rush and the Release combines organic, free-flowing forms with textured, powder-coated metal.

Achatz’s original paper designs were digitized and laser cut into Rigidized® Metals 60LTH textured metal, allowing the intricate patterns to be reproduced at a much larger scale while maintaining the character and precision of her hand-cut work. Powder coating in Bills-inspired colors and dimensional layering add depth, movement and visual impact to the finished installation.

Rigidized® Metals also custom fabricated the hardware required to assemble and mount the artwork, including additional stand-off supports to address public safety while maintaining the dimensionality of the design.

The result is a permanent work that brings together art, engineered metal surfaces and Buffalo identity—demonstrating the creative possibilities of metal beyond conventional architectural and industrial applications.