David Graham

Artist Blacksmith | Sculptor

Artist statement:

My unique practice explores the potential of contemporary blacksmithing.

My works evaluate and extend the possibilities of forging hot steel in a constant attempt to shift objects from a purely utilitarian beginning to a wholly reimagined future state.

I’m inspired by organic shapes, the sea and the bush. I draw inspiration from the things that surround me. As I’m an avid surfer & windsurfer, the ocean is a huge influence in all of its moods.

I have refined my craft for over 26 years, exploring, experimenting and engaging multiple mentors. I‘ve been a resident artist at Ashmore Arts for 8 years where I have collaborated on numerous commissions for both private and corporate clients. 

---

Select Projects:

2023 “Humpback Whale” Private Sculpture Commission.

2022 “Emu feathers” Spirit of Tasmania, Collaborative Commercial Project.

2022 “Banjo Shark” St Leonards, Collaborative Commercial Project.

2021 “Sperm Whale” Private Sculpture Commission.

2021 “Kelp Sunrise” gate, Anglesea, Private Commission.

2020 “Eclipse”, Paper mill Gallery.

2020 “Sprawling”, Sculpture.

2020 “Not submissive”, Paper mill Gallery.

2020 “Journey to somewhere”, Private Sculpture.

2020 “Transformation”, Private Sculpture.

2019 “Kelp” Sculpture, The Point Town Park, Point Lonsdale.

2019 Central Park Memorial gates, Stawell, Northern Grampians Shire.

2019 Wedge Tailed Eagle Sculpture, Frankston City council.

2019 Shop fit-out, XTM Performance, Commercial Project.

2018 “Windswept” gate, East Geelong, Private Commission.

2018 “Moonah” gate, Breamlea, Private Commission.

2018 “Bull Kelp” gate, Anglesea, Private Commission.

2017 “Wrought in Sunshine” works, Group Exhibition

2017 “Kelp” sculpture, Jan Juc, Private Commission.

2017 Birdbath, Thornbury, Private Commission.

2017 Birdbath, copper, Jan Juc, Private Commission.

2016 Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie, Collaborative Commercial Project.

2016 “Feather” sign, Private Commission.

2016 “Sea scape”, gate, Private Commission

Professional development:

2019 Master class Sculpture collaboration, Waterside Metal art Footscray, Victoria
2018 Botanical intensive Master class, Waterside Metal Art, Footscray, Victoria

Qualifications:

2002-2015 Carpenter Sub-contractor

1997-2005 Australian Blacksmiths Association Vic.

2003- Cert IV Building, RMIT

1998-2002 Apprenticeship Carpentry.