Artist Profile:

Mark Hill

Based in his studio at The Hills, Arrowtown, Mark’s works are primarily large-scale, forged and welded stainless and Corten steel sculptures. His works have been sent across the world to the USA, Germany, Australia and beyond.

Born in Whangarei, New Zealand, Mark Hill studied at the Queensland College of Art in Australia before embarking on a career in graphic design and photography. On a whim, he bought a welder and began experimenting with sheet steel. Mark held his first solo exhibition in 2002, and has worked full time as a sculptor and artist ever since.

His self-taught, experimental style has led to a striking and organic form of sculpture which Mark is widely recognised for. Mark works on commissioned pieces for private collections, as well as having public works across New Zealand including Katikati, Wanaka and Arrowtown.

In Queenstown, Mark is known for his elegant and distinctive Maori Chief sculptures greeting international visitors and travellers at Queenstown Airport. These sculptures are over seven meters tall, with over 20,000 spot welds in each piece.

Mark’s works typically depict insects, bones and semi-abstract human forms. The welding components are not just a means of holding the works together; the welding is accentuated and worked to add a decorative finish resembling cast metal.

Over the last few years, Mark has travelled extensively, taking inspiration from the historic master artists of Spain, Italy, Poland and Barcelona. This inspiration has added a new element to Mark’s creations.

“I enjoy the hands-on process of working with steel,” says Mark.

“Though I guide, shape, move and twist the metal, its natural resistance means that steel retains its inherent character and form emerges organically.”