Makers of trench art utilized artillery shells, bullets, shrapnel, aircraft parts, currency and other miscellaneous metal scrap and applied materials. Thus, pieces also show an amazing variety of styles, cultures, religious faiths and craftsmanship. If the soldiers were fortunate enough to find paint, they painted flowers, birds and landscapes on everything, including helmets.

“The ingenuity and skill ranged from primitive artillery shell vases to elaborate lamps, cigarette lighters and ashtrays exhibiting high artistic craftsmanship. The captivating decorative appeal of trench art often reflected stylistic influences of the time, such as Art Nouveau. Often folk art designs with elaborate engraving and repoussé work were incorporated,” said Coleman Hampton, the museum’s executive director.