The Art of Metal Fabrication

Eric Hull is a master metal fabricator with a unique passion for creating wildlife sculptures. Using his expertise in metal plasma cutting and welding, he has brought to life a variety of Australian animals, including kangaroos, wallabies, emus, and kookaburras. His work is not only visually stunning but also showcases his exceptional skill and attention to detail.

The Process of Metal Fabrication

Metal fabrication involves the use of various techniques and tools to shape and form metal into the desired shape. In Eric’s case, he uses metal plasma cutting to cut out the shapes of his wildlife sculptures. This process involves using a high-temperature plasma arc to cut through metal, allowing for precise and accurate cuts. The plasma cutting process is typically used for cutting thicker metals, such as steel or aluminum, due to its high precision and speed. Eric’s use of plasma cutting allows him to achieve intricate details and shapes, making his sculptures even more realistic and lifelike.*

The Art of Welding

Welding is another crucial aspect of metal fabrication, and Eric is skilled in various welding techniques. He uses a combination of MIG and TIG welding to join the metal pieces together, ensuring a strong and durable bond.

A New Chapter for Sculpture in the Gaol

The inaugural art prize, which has replaced Sculpture in the Gaol, has been a long-awaited event for the community. The prize has been revamped to include a new category for three-dimensional art, which has attracted a diverse range of entries from local artists.

The Rise of Sculpture in the Gaol

Sculpture in the Gaol was a popular event that ran for over 20 years, but it had become stagnant and was in need of a revamp. The decision to replace it with a new prize was met with excitement and anticipation from the community. The new prize aims to bring in fresh talent and new ideas, while still celebrating the local art scene.

Eric’s Journey to the Prize

Eric, a retired butcher from Wherrol Flat, has been a long-time supporter of the arts. He started his artistic journey with watercolour and pastels, but eventually moved on to sculpture. Eric’s sculptures are a testament to his creativity and skill, and he is thrilled to have been selected for the inaugural art prize.

Eric’s Sculptures

Eric submitted three sculptures for the prize, each one showcasing his unique style and technique. The sculptures are:

What the Judges Said

The judges were impressed by Eric’s sculptures, praising his attention to detail and creativity.

Eric said he was overwhelmed to be named the recipient of the award “as there were many outstanding pieces on display”.