This stainless steel robin was created as a very special gift, carrying a meaning that many people hold close to their hearts:

When a robin appears,
a loved one is near.

The robin is often seen as a gentle reminder of those we have lost, a small presence that brings comfort during quiet moments. Knowing this, I wanted the sculpture to feel reassuring and familiar, something that could be lived with and returned to over time.

The idea for the robin came after I was repeatedly asked if I could make one. Although I wanted to honour those requests, I found it surprisingly challenging. The robin is so closely associated with its red breast, and I did not want the sculpture to rely on colour alone. I wanted it to feel like a robin even before any colour was added, through its shape, posture, and character.

After spending time thinking it through, I chose to work primarily with recycled stainless steel and recycled cutlery. These materials bring their own history and texture, catching the light in subtle ways and giving the bird a sense of life and movement. Using reclaimed materials also felt especially fitting for a piece about memory and continuity.

Only once I was completely happy with the form of the robin, its balance, proportions, and personality, did I add the colour. By leaving this until the final stage, the sculpture was able to stand confidently on its own, with the colour simply enhancing what was already there rather than defining it.

When the design felt right, I began carefully repeating the process, using the same method each time. While each robin follows the same formula, every piece retains small differences, making each one quietly unique.

The robin is displayed on a solid hardwood base, chosen for its warmth and natural grain. The wood softens the stainless steel and helps ground the sculpture, giving it a calm, timeless presence.

Creating this robin inspired me to continue exploring small birds in steel, which led to my kingfisher sculpture. Both pieces reflect my aim to capture familiar wildlife in a way that feels honest, thoughtful, and lasting.

This robin is more than a sculpture. It is a gentle reminder, a symbol of love and remembrance, and a piece made with care, patience, and intention.