Rusty Sculptures
Rusty Sculptures are proudly Australian made, right here on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula.
We offer a large range of recycled metal sculptures as well as customised screens, gates & letterboxes.
About Russ
Russ is a collector at heart. He enjoys collecting odd bits and pieces which eventually led him to designing and building crazy recycled metal creations.
Russ had an interest in the arts from a young age working in the technical aspects of theatre, including set design, audio and lighting. Threatrical lighting quickly became his passion and this led him to Melbourne to further his career. It wasn’t until his 30’s he went looking for a new creative challenge.
It started with a couple of scrap pieces of metal from the shed and a little welder he had recently purchased, his creativity began to flow. Each piece of metal on its own was nothing special. Welded together they created a strange looking robot called Bert, who remains with Russ proudly displayed in his showroom as mascot.
It often starts with an interesting shaped piece of metal and then adding other materials and details Russ works each piece into its own unique piece.
More collecting, building and welding followed until the yard was full, some had to go. Heading off to a local market Russ was shocked that everyone else loved his creations and was further inspired by the feedback. He began diversifying into Australian birds and animals and expanding his range and skills.
Continuing with local markets, events and art shows around the Mornington Peninsula Russ picked up several awards for his body of work.
Larger workshops, more equipment followed and now Russ works from his custom built factility in Carrum Downs.
In 2012 Russ was selected as an artist for the “Mali in the City” program for the Royal Melbourne Zoo. “Rusty Mali” was the largest undertaking he had ever created and the most rewarding and challenging by far. “Rusty Mali” was sold at auction with all proceeds going to environmental programs. It was one of his proudest moments as a sculptor.
Over the years Russ has created pieces for many councils, schools and events.
The current MeandUooUoo program for the Royal Children’s Hospital is another highlight of Russ’s career. Russ’s creation is inspired by dragons and dinosaurs, UooDinoo has been created to promote recycling and eco awareness. Over 150 hours and thousands of items went into creating a truly unique interactive piece. You can stare at it for hours and still find items you had not previously seen. From household folks and spoons through to a bicycle bell, UooDinno has it all…
Russ continues to collect metals and materials for his creations. You never know what his next project will be as it all depends on the ever changing materials he sources out there…
