“My interest in creating sculptures from discarded metal scraps and pieces of machinery stems from a strong awareness of our environment, and how I could help minimize the effect of waste,”
George Holancin, metal sculptor

Holancin’s customers appreciate the heritage behind the items used for sculpture, and Holancin likes avoiding the scrap pile.

Holancin’s chance discovery of his creative talent for sculpting occurred in the early 1990s. He dealt with discarded tools and farm implements working in the agricultural industry. The interesting shapes caught his eye; the curve of a plow, and the slender harrows for baling hay, and he realized their potential use.

As well as recycled farm machinery and found objects, Holancin makes other pieces required for his work by welding or cutting. When making a heron he cuts out the silhouette, and cuts tin for wings. Bird necks are often made from cultivators, and his musicians are made from railroad spikes.

“For me, there is also a sense of history when I create a bird or animal using long-forgotten implements such as hay rakes and obsolete plows. Having spent most of my life close to nature, I envisioned such forms when I came across pieces of metal nestled in weeds and wooded areas. My welding skills enabled me to transform these interesting and wonderful shapes into sculptures.”

Holancin’s nature-inspired designs include, birds, frogs, snails, turtles, and flowers. A love of jazz music adds musicians to his list of subject matter. The end product is often painted, sometimes left bare. A sculpture can be left to rust if desired, for added character.

The seasonal nature of the agricultural business allowed Holancin to explore other interests, leading him to live in New York City in the sixties. For five years he worked as a fashion model and soaked up the influences the great city had to offer, including photography and jazz music.

Holancin is participating in the 2nd annual Schomberg Village Street Gallery, and shows work in several Ontario galleries. His studio is adjacent to his home. He does his art for the love of it, but also accepts commissions.