40 Year Survey Show
Explore the background, synopsis and media of our featured artist.
Oliver Stretton-Pow
Show Synopsis
Oliver Stretton-Pow, a master sculptor with over 40 years of experience, creates exceptional multimedia works using materials such as bronze, glass, wood, and clay. His most recent accolades include the People’s Choice Award at the 20th anniversary of Sculpture on the Gulf, curated by Robert Leonard and Brett Graham. His upcoming 40-Year Survey show will showcase a diverse range of pieces, spanning from his early creations to his most recent works.
Oliver, who holds a Master of Fine Arts from ELAM (Auckland University), has designed and built numerous interactive sculptures for public spaces, wineries, estates, and private collections. Renowned for their conceptual edge, elegance, and durability, Oliver's sculptures exemplify traditional bronze casting techniques often juxtaposed with uncanny or evocative narratives that invite his audience to interact both intellectually and physically with the works.
Artist Background
Freak Wave
At 21, Oliver and his brother were involved in a near-fatal car accident in South Australia. His brother required reconstructive surgery for his face and legs, while Oliver suffered severe spinal damage, leading to insomnia and PTSD. Oliver has channeled these experiences into his art practice. While building the dragon throne for Thor: Ragnarok, Oliver once again faced mortality, suffering a heart attack. These experiences profoundly impacted him, bringing the concept of temporality to the forefront of his work and causing a significant shift in his life and artistic focus.
Oliver is first and foremost a father and a teacher, deeply committed to giving back to his community. He has taught art at his local high school, created works for Women's Refuge and other charities, and hosts the monthly “Table Talks” here at Studio Ten81. He has also created props for blockbuster films such as The Hobbit, The Avengers, and Power Rangers.
Oliver engineers his pieces with meticulous attention to detail, crafting each work by hand from the initial concept to the final product. He has hosted 13 solo exhibitions, and has participated in numerous group shows. Drawing inspiration from an imaginative reservoir recorded in journals, Oliver’s creative process is both immediate and enduring. Some ideas are a direct response to his current interests and environment, while others may recur and be refined over decades.
Artist Media
