Very cool- I have similar sculptural goals with metal as well. The human form simply has no peer. No MIG here, most is gas welded and some TIG. A recurring theme here is much like any carving project and something I have said for many years- little pieces are little mistakes. Being a competent welder allows you to make and join smaller pieces into one large one.
There's some that [I]can[I] make an entire complex panel in one piece, but even those wizards agree it's usually better make it in smaller pieces welded together for faster, more consistent success. Individual pieces can be done and redone until they work, instead of throwing out the a big part and all that work. Lots different than carving from solid with one shot at success.
Doing several pieces with adequate overlap allows trimming to a quicker fit, as long as you can then weld it up as needed. Getting a large piece to fit everywhere is tough. Getting several to fit the same seems much easier. Learning where to break a part into pieces to facilitate success is important.
If you're looking for welding equipment, search the forum. There's some great specialized gear available, not like typical welding store offerings. I would love to see some of your carving work as well, probably best done off the forum. All my info is linked.
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