Mike Thompson
Metal Sculpture | Reclaimed Tools | British Wildlife in Motion
Mike Thompson transforms vintage hand tools into striking, life-size sculptures of British birds and wildlife - capturing movement, form, and memory in forged steel. Working from his East Devon studio, he selects each piece from an ever-growing collection of spanners, wrenches, and chisels - shaping and welding them into anatomically precise forms, while keeping every tool recognisable and intact.
Each sculpture is finished in beeswax to preserve the character and patina of the original metal, often revealing cast maker’s marks that tell their own stories. The result is work that feels both timeless and alive - industrial relics reimagined with grace and quiet power.
Mike regularly takes on private commissions, often using tools passed down through families - giving his sculptures not just form and function, but emotional weight. Indoors, they stay sharp and detailed. Outdoors, they evolve - developing a rusted red-brown finish that deepens with time.
His work isn't just decorative - it’s personal, precise, and made to last. A celebration of British craftsmanship, past and present.
Artist Terms of Sale: This artist sets their own Terms & Conditions, which apply to any purchase. You can view their site below. If no terms are published there, Artisan Collective’s Fallback Terms will be used.
