Flights of Fancy Feathers: an exhibition of 54 sculptures by Ian Bell

Ian Bell, Twist, coast banksia, 350 x 140 x 90mm. Photo: Ian Bell

Wood sculptor Ian Bell’s work has flown to new heights with his soon-to-open exhibition. "Flights of Fancy Feathers" will feature 54 of Ian’s bird creations which range in scale from the small and delightful-to-hold to others which figure much larger than life. Ian’s sculptures will be complemented by the ‘masterful representations of native birdlife’ by Ebony Bennett, Helen Cottle, Helen Fitzgerald and Lyn Cooke. The exhibition may be seen at Bungendore Wood Works Gallery, NSW from September 2 until November 30, 2023.

Arriving at Bungendore Wood Works Gallery, Gallery Artistic Director David Mac Laren OAM takes a snap of Ian Bell's striking blue wren.

In 2023, the Gallery celebrates its 40th year and also Ian’s 19th year in presenting his work there. “I feel privileged and honoured to present over 50 new wood sculptures of birds”, says Ian. “Flights of Fancy Feathers is a collection of works that seek to explore shape and surface texture in more detail than in previous iterations”, says Ian. “Burning, painting and the addition of other material signal possible new directions. Birds with the usual mark making I am known for with fine chisels are also on display in a variety of sizes from 850mm high down to 50mm being the smallest."

Eastern rosella, coast banksia, acrylic paint, 300 x 110 x 70mm

“This exhibition is evidence that I am a bit of a bird nerd", continued Ian. "As a child I can remember the very first time I saw an Eastern rosella in the bush and was dazzled by its colour and melodic voice. I was instantly in love with them and amazed something so beautiful existed. To this day they remain a favourite of mine, with parrots being well represented in this exhibition.

Paradise parrot in-progress and "playing with colour"

“Creating this flock over the last year has given me a lot of pleasure. From the first piece to the last, I develop a relationship with the wood which I enjoy. Each presents new challenges and paying close attention to the material dictates how things are going to pan out and is quite a challenge regarding grain structure, imperfections, limitations, and possibilities.”

Ian Bell, grey butcher bird, melaleuca, acrylic paint, 320 x 80 x 70mm

The theme of the exhibition evolved two years ago when David Mac Laren asked Ian to sculpt a wren as a tribute to the late Matthew Harding, a hugely talented artist who loved shaping wrens. "We got to talking about birds generally and soon Ian had decided he wanted an exhibition of birds in two years", said David. "And I said what a great way to celebrate forty years with an inaugural exhibition by Ian Bell and four very fine and experienced bird artists."

Ian Bell two years ago with the unfinished wren sculpted from cedar of Lebanon. The making of this piece was the catalyst for the exhibition which opens this Sunday, September 2 at 11am. Visitors to the exhibition opening will enjoy a 10% discount on opening day purchases. 

Read a profile of Ian Bell written by Terry Martin for Australian Wood Review.

Learn more about Ian Bell at www.ianbellcreations.com.au

For information about Bungendore Wood Works Gallery see bwoodworks.com.au