For years, creators have been chasing virality and hoping the money follows. But today, some of the most successful creators are flipping that script by focusing on commerce.

Rusty nuts and bolts, discarded links of sturdy metal chains – where most people see junk, Ray Egger sees art.

The Arcata Artisans Gallery is featuring creations by ceramicist/mixed media sculptor Keith Schneider and metal artist Kris ...