This is a small 9x25cm wall sculpture called On Bended Nail that I made in 2017 from my home studio. this was before I became an artist-in-residence at River Studios in West Melbourne. It is made entirely from wood and metal that I found on the streets of Melbourne during my daily walks. This work comes with a stand to set on a book shelf or mantel.
Although I created some representational works that year, the majority were more abstract or geometrical. They often juxtaposed different types of found objects, such as nuts and bobby pins, or cream chargers and hair clips.
My palette during this time was essentially silver-coloured, rust-coloured, wood grain and black. That’s why I was fascinated with the subtle range of variations in scratches, patina and sheen of the objects I found. Many of the metal pieces had turned a fine shade of rust from months or years on the street before I ‘rescued’ them – including these lovely curving nails.
My art is inspired by a strong interest in sustainability through repurposing and upcycling. My hope is that this artwork makes you smile and, at the same time, reminds you of the 5Rs to help our planet: refuse, reduce, reuse, repurpose and recycle.
