Sculptors at the 2015 Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show: Lawrence Marshall

Marshall's interest in art began at a very early age but took many years to develop and fulfil his creative interest. Through his background in farming, practical solutions to problems led him to implementing several new inventions, for which he was awarded the prestigious Hugh McKay state award for innovation and contribution to agriculture in Victoria in 1994. He successfully invented and designed agricultural machinery and in 1992 & 1993 he won “Inventor of the Year” in Australia and New Zealand. He has always loved working with timber enjoying itʼs supple but strong contrasting qualities, implementing themes of form and all things “old”, he was able to work on several heritage boats to express those inner desires.

Aussie Mozzie

 The nature of animals and birds strongly appeals to him as subjects because of the contrasts they present - their strength and power coupled with their survival instincts and subtle ingenious mannerisms. Through carving, chiseling and welding he has sought to create and explore the fluid, spontaneous movement observed in animals and birds living on the land. Marshall hopes to further develop his skills, techniques and conceptual understanding to take creativity to “the next level”. He believes participation and ongoing involvement with other artists and sculptors is one way of achieving this! In processing his work through recycled timber and metal, such as springs, horse shoes, scarifier points, cutlery, etc, he uses the technique of mig welding to structure a strong skeleton to form the size and shape of the bird or animal to be sculptured.

Toad Stool Family

He then covers the frame with the chosen medium until it is completely covered, finishing it with an exterior lacquer-resistant oil to weather proof the item against rust and UV rays, giving the sculpture a natural look that blends into the rural landscape. Marshall continues to show in major exhibitions andgalleries of N.S.W and Victoria.