Most of us dream of retiring to a remote island. Metal sculptor Chase Allen already lives that dream. Once a real estate agent with a degree in marketing, this bright young artisan took a risk and went after what he really wanted: the simple life. Chase traded in the boardroom for an open air studio on rural Daufuskie Island, South Carolina, where, amidst a shower of birdsong and fiery sparks, he forges colorful works of art that are as unique and rustic as his island home.

Situated along a dirt road deep in Daufuskie's maritime forest, Chase Allen's shop, The Iron Fish, is a treasured local landmark. Visitors will find a yard filled with handmade metal sculptures and an historic Gullah house covered in classically painted iron fish. More often than not, they'll also find the self-taught artist himself, hammering, cutting, forging and welding under the shade of a moss-draped oak.

Part of the charm is in the way Chase does business. Over the years, Chase observed that when people had questions or wanted him to wrap or ship a sculpture, they would simply ask. Expect a polite acknowledgment and then plenty of time alone to decide on what to take home. If you would like the artists opinion, so long as Chase is around, he is always willing to put in his two cents. Of course, for designer assistance, Chase has posted a copy of the Cary Halsey Design Tips on the porch with his sculptures.

The reason Chase likes to leave people alone while they are shopping at his gallery is because he never wants anyone to buy his art because of something he says. He feels strongly that art should sell itself. If the artwork speaks to you or makes you feel something good, that is all that someone needs to make a decision.

Another charming part of how he operates his island gallery is if he's working in his backyard studio or getting supplies on the mainland, a sign on the porch directs vacationers to take what they want and leave the money in the "honor box", also known as "slip a check under the door". Don't fret if you have forgotten your check book or cash because if you sign in to the Guest Log, Chase will call you for a credit card number when he gets back in.

Now, visitors to www.ironfishart.com can find the same creative tokens of island life online–but with a slightly more modern payment platform. These signature handmade collector's items come individually stamped, signed, dated and cleverly gift-wrapped with interior design tips. Ideal gifts for any occasion, the iron fish are more than works of art; they're mementos of the simple life–flown in fresh from an island untouched by time.