ArtMetal

Two thoughts: if for yourself to join him in the venture. a local city college, high school, or welding shop sales room class might be a wonderful beginning.
They would have more equipment than you would ever need and you would learn what suits you the best for whatever you decide to aim at.
(And this will most likely change and grow if you keep at it).
Second thought is to just go to a welding shop, tell them your goal and set a limit as to how much you want to spend.
There are lots of assesories that make it more fun and easier and more satisfying. There are also huge amounts to spend one day if you find future goals working out. Start slower though. bpfink
PS. 3rd idea: A map to a scrap yard that likes to sell cheap pieces of odd metal hunks ad shapes to work with....