Every sculpture begins long before metal is cut or welded. This life-size stainless steel pelican, inspired by the North American bird, started with research—hours spent studying the bird’s form, posture, and presence. Pelicans have a distinctive balance of strength and elegance, and understanding their anatomy and character was essential before any physical work could begin.
Once I felt confident in my understanding of the bird, the process moved to paper. Pen was put to page, and numerous sketches followed. These early drawings are not only about shape, but about problem-solving—considering materials, scale, and which welding techniques would best support the final form. Each sketch informed the next, refining the design while anticipating the technical challenges ahead.
With a final drawing established, I began constructing a 5mm steel subframe. This framework is created organically, guided directly by the sketch, and serves as the foundation for the sculpture’s initial size and proportions. At this stage, I constantly step back, adjusting and refining the structure until the pelican’s silhouette feels true to life. Only once I am satisfied with the overall scale and balance do I begin layering material onto the frame.
The build-up process takes days. Layer by layer, the stainless steel is added, fettled, reworked, and adjusted. This is where the sculpture truly begins to emerge. Throughout this stage, I continually reference the pelican’s natural form, ensuring that each curve and contour remains faithful to the living bird. Gradually, the sculpture starts to feel less constructed and more alive.
A key aim in my work is to ensure that there are no visible exterior welds. Achieving this requires constant forward planning while constructing the piece—every joint and connection must be carefully considered as the sculpture evolves. It is a demanding process, but one that allows the finished work to appear seamless and fluid, rather than engineered.
Only once the pelican itself is complete do I turn my attention to the base. The base is never an afterthought; it is designed to enhance the sculpture’s presence and narrative. For this piece, I created a wooden plinth inspired by a large harbour post, grounding the bird within a coastal setting. A crab sits on the base, reinforcing this shoreline theme and subtly referencing the pelican’s natural habitat.
I did briefly consider adding a life ring to the base—perhaps that’s an idea for a future piece—but ultimately chose restraint, allowing the pelican and its environment to speak for themselves.
The finished sculpture captures a moment of stillness. Solid yet reflective, industrial yet organic, the pelican stands as a study of form, patience, and process—an exploration of how careful observation and craftsmanship can transform raw material into something that feels quietly alive.
