Created from a mould taken from my original, hand sculpted kookaburra, each cast becomes a new starting point. I wanted to explore the contrast between realism and abstraction, using the same sculptural form as a canvas for different artistic interpretations.

For this piece, I explored a rich palette of earthy reds, warm browns, golden yellows, creams and black metallic accents. Combining acrylic paint, charcoal and resin dyes with metallic resin powder, the surface takes on a layered quality, bringing together colour, texture and subtle reflective details.

Each element contributes to the character of the sculpture, creating a different interpretation of the familiar Australian bird while allowing its original form to remain recognisable.

This is an ongoing exploration. Future works will continue to take the kookaburra in different directions, experimenting with new colours, textures and artistic expressions, with each sculpture accompanied by a related artwork.

A familiar Australian bird. A new creative possibility.

Artwork details

• Artist: Shannon O’Neill

• Artwork: Kookaburra 002: See Me, See Country

• Medium: Plaster cast, wire, hessian, acrylic paint, charcoal, resin dyes and metallic resin powder.

• Finish: Hand painted with resin detailing

• Display: Wall hanging

• Installation: Integrated wire hook. Requires a suitable screw securely fitted into the wall.

• Dimensions: Approximately 37 cm wide × 27 cm high × 7 cm deep at the widest point. Dimensions may vary slightly depending on the angle at which the sculpture sits.

• Weight: Approximately 900 grams.

• Collection: The Kookaburra Project

An original artwork, hand finished by Shannon O’Neill.