Amazingly, Sam began creating sculptures with metal materials barely a year before entering several works into last year’s exhibition.

“It was the first time I’d entered work like that into a competition,” said Sam. 

“Prior to that I’ve spent years drawing, painting and doing some wood carving, but it was seeing [past Sculpture in the Gaol winner] Mick Martin’s piece ‘Eagle’ that finally made me want to have a go at working with metal.”

“I ended up entering three pieces to last year’s event and two of them sold, so I couldn’t be happier with the result.”

While visiting the exhibition Sam noticed the many entries from local schools, which is what motivated him to propose a sculpture project to his local school.

“It’s working with kids from Kindy through to Year 2. We’ve collaborated on a tree-like structure in which the children will place animals they’ve made from recycled materials such as plastic bottles.”

“The school crest features a pair of possums and several children have been inspired to create their own. The use of upcycled or recycled materials has provided an opportunity to convey key messages around waste and recycling,” Miss B, K-1-2 class teacher at the school, who helped facilitate the project said.

As for Sam, he’s looking forward to unveiling his new works at this year’s Sculpture in the Gaol, which opens on Sunday, August 5 at Trial Bay Gaol in South West Rocks. 

Entry to the opening gala day is just $2. The event then runs daily from 9am to 4.30pm until September 1 with combined entry to the Gaol and exhibition costing $11 per adult, $8 concessions and $30 for a family ticket comprising two adults and two children. 

For further information, find Sculpture in the Gaol on Facebook and follow @sculptureinthegaol on Instagram

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