One West Virginia University Parkersburg instructor was nominated by Governor Joe Manchin as West Virginia's Artist of the Year...

The art guru believes his out of state perspective won him the honors.

Zach Orcutt is a teacher, husband, and West Virginia's artist of the year.

The 3-D art instructor explains his work as, "large scale metal sculpture and flying machines out of scrap materials from junk yards made of aluminum and steal, welding them together."

Orcutt says he is inspired by his alter ego, these metal works of art make the WVUP instructor stand out during this year's West Virginia Governor's Art Awards.

The basics of Zach Orcutt's work are metal, mold, and the model.

Orcutt says, "on the surface its like an overgrown toy... But if you go through the layers, you can see that there are some political statements that I am trying to make."

Along with his models, Orcutt shows his appreciation to the community by teaching and donating pottery.

His student, Jennifer Lasko was proud of her instructor and friend, "I think what stood him out is his unique talent his unique perspective on the art of flying."

The Pennsylvania native accredits his artistic flare to his upbringing and moved to the mountain state with his wife more then a year ago.

"I have an outside perspective as well, so i believe bringing that into WV has helped as well," says Orcutt.

His work is on display at the Parkersburg Art Center as part of the college's student/faculty art show, now through April 3rd.