People
A series of blogs featuring sculptures of people created by artist Simon O’Rourke using chainsaws and other power tools.
Wood to Wizard: A Chainsaw Carved Gandalf Sculpture
Well, it turns out that wizards are like the proverbial bus. You go years without any and then two commissions come along at once. And not just any wizard either! Can you believe I was working on two Gandalfs at the same time?! For those who don’t know, Gandalf is one of the wizards in … Read more
How I created a Unique Swiss Art Nouveau Sculpture
In the Autumn of 2024, I had the fantastic experience of travelling to Switzerland for a commission. The job was in a beautiful part of the country and our clients were fantastic hosts. We enjoyed the local scenery and cuisine at the weekends and were blessed with great weather throughout. It was one of my … Read more
Sculpture of King Charles Hiding in an Oak Tree
Earlier in February I was able to spend some time in the beautiful Cotswolds. Not for a holiday though! Rather, I was working in lovely Gretton where I created a sculpture of King Charles hiding in an oak tree. No, not King Charles III! Rather, a sculpture telling the story of the time King Charles … Read more
A Beautiful Cedar Memorial Sculpture
In the past I’ve created a few memorial pieces. For example, my scupture of Robyn or this robin memorial bench. It’s a beautiful thing as an artist to be able to help someone in their grief and create a meaningful tribute to their loved one. Each time I’ve been asked, it’s truly been a privilege. … Read more
2022 Sandringham Cup Winner
The May bank holiday weekend marked a return to competitive carving for Simon after a four-year break. And he didn’t just compete! His sculpture ‘Ascension’ was spectacular and he earned the title of 2022 Sandringham Cup winner. Sandringham Cup Before talking about the sculpture that made Simon the 2022 Sandringham Cup winner, what … Read more
Love Leading the Pilgrim Sculpture
This week Simon installed his Love Leading the Pilgrim sculpture at Biddulph Old Hall. It’s been popular on social media, so we wanted to share more about the sculpture and the story behind it. It’s fascinating! A big thank you to client Brian Vowles for his input on the blog this week. Meet … Read more
Susanna Wesley Sculpture
inIf you follow Simon on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter, you’ll know he’s had a big project this week. He’s been down in East Finchley working on a sculpture for East Finchley Methodist Church. We’ll have more to share soon, but for this week, let us introduce you to his Susanna Wesley sculpture… Background to … Read more
Crohn’s Inspired Sculpture
Next week is Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness Week in the UK (1st – 7th Dec 2021). Their theme is ‘Your Story Matters’ and Crohn’s and Colitis UK are encouraging everyone to share their story; patients, carers, supporters, nurses – anyone with a connection. Back in 2017, Simon created a Crohn’s inspired sculpture for an award-winning … Read more
WWII Soldier Memorial Sculpture
As the country silences itself at 11am today, Workington has a new WWII soldier memorial sculpture to commemorate those who gave their lives in military service. The unveiling took place on Poppy Day, as you may have seen on BBC or ITV. Simon and Liz were also there today (Remembrance Sunday) to see the sculpture … Read more