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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