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Andrew Whitehead: Turning Rust into Regional Icons

May 27, 2025 by Shellie Wilson

If you’ve ever driven through rural New South Wales and spotted a giant spider looming in a park or a metal shearer mid-snip, chances are you’ve encountered the work of Andrew Whitehead — a brilliant Australian sculptor who breathes new life into scrap metal.

Based in Urana, Andrew has made a name for himself (and his small town) by crafting large-scale public artworks entirely from recycled and salvaged materials. His sculptures aren’t just impressive in scale — they’re also full of meaning, storytelling, and community pride.

One of his most iconic pieces, affectionately titled “Not So Itsy”, is a larger-than-life spider that perches atop a webbed structure in Urana. It’s playful, a little eerie, and completely unforgettable. But like all of Andrew’s work, it goes deeper than just visual impact — it’s a nod to the town’s quirky character and creativity.

Another standout is “Shearing the Ram”, a powerful tribute to Australia’s rich wool industry and its historical importance in rural communities. Crafted from discarded farm equipment and rusted iron, the sculpture captures the essence of a timeless trade, now immortalized in steel.

What makes Andrew’s work so special is how he combines technical skill with heart. Each piece is carefully researched and often inspired by local legends, historic events, or the everyday life of the bush. And he doesn’t just install art — he builds landmarks that tell a story.

His commitment to using recycled materials is also worth applauding. In an age where fast consumerism often overshadows sustainability, Andrew’s sculptures stand as giant reminders (literally) of how beautiful and meaningful upcycling can be.

Whether it’s a metal Murray cod, a sheepdog mid-run, or a vintage tractor sculpture, Andrew Whitehead is proving that art doesn’t need a gallery — sometimes, the best place for a sculpture is by the roadside, where it can make people smile, reflect, and feel proud of where they’re from.

He’s not just an artist — he’s a storyteller, environmentalist, and quiet legend of the Aussie outback. Keep an eye out — his work has a way of popping up in the most unexpected (and unforgettable) places. Check out his facebook profile here.

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Turn Dollar Store Finds into Stunning Vintage Decor with This Easy DIY Milk Glass Hack!

If you’ve ever swooned over the elegant, timeless look of vintage milk glass—but not the antique store price tag—then this DIY trick is about to blow your mind. With just a few simple supplies and a little spray paint magic, you can transform ordinary glassware into beautiful, faux milk glass pieces that look like they’ve been passed down through generations.

This easy milk glass DIY is perfect for budget-conscious decorators, thrift store treasure hunters, and anyone looking to add a touch of farmhouse charm or vintage flair to their home. Think classic vases, fruit bowls, pitchers, candle holders—the possibilities are endless.

The secret? Glossy white spray paint. That’s it. The trick is in the prep work: make sure your glass is clean and smooth, then apply light, even coats for that flawless porcelain finish. It’s an affordable, satisfying weekend project that delivers big impact with very little effort.

Perfect for weddings, holiday centerpieces, or just giving your shelfie game a serious upgrade, this DIY milk glass technique proves that high-end style doesn’t have to come with a high-end price.

So next time you’re strolling the aisles of the dollar store or eyeing those dusty dishes in your cabinet, remember: with a little creativity, you’re just a spray can away from turning them into timeless vintage-style decor.

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