Dan O'Brien has studied metal sculpting at both the Evanston Art Center and the Chicago Industrial Arts and Design Center. At CIADC, he was instrumental in the buildout and fitting of the metal working studio, and continues to hang around there. A former computer technician, English teacher, and researcher, he returns to sculpting after his first experiences in college art classes. He has always had a love for tools, and building and repairing furniture, home environments, cars, and machinery. He also has a love for fire and smashing things with hammers.

He formed Outlier Metal Arts in 2014 when he realized he wanted to pursue this passion for metal work full time. His work includes custom-designed sculptural furniture and gifts, unique home decor, one-of-a-kind jewelry, and somewhat fine art. He lives in Evanston, IL, with his lovely wife, Elise, and two spirited kids. They think his job is "cool".