Simon Max Bannister's unique bronze work carries a powerful essence that catches the eye and the heart. Working in wood and metal, he casts one literally into the other, to create sculptures that pair delicate and ephemeral details with bold enduring angular gestures.

 

His bird forms are particularly striking, capturing the character and fragility of each species through his splintered language. Each work is a respectful tribute to both natural beauty and the need to preserve it.

 

With his steel outdoor pieces, he often integrates industrial elements, re-imagining iron into wilder themes, such as skeletal armatures, nests, wings, feathers and branches. These works relate to his passion for the reclaiming power of nature and his belief in its restorative power.

 

Like guardians of the land, he hopes his sculptures can bring bold attention to the larger environment as they integrate into the landscape.

Simon Max Bannister's artistic journey is a testament to the enduring power of nature. Hailing from the vast landscapes of South Africa, his passion for wild animals and open spaces ignited a deep connection to the natural world. This connection is evident in every sculpture he creates – a tribute to nature's breathtaking beauty, ferocious resilience, and delicate fragility.

His works have found homes across continents, from Kenya and America to India and the UK. Exhibitions at prestigious venues like Christie's and collaborations with renowned organizations like the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation and the Remembering Wildlife Series further solidified his artistic impact. Sculptures gracing lodges like Londolozi, Angama, and Sher Bagh stand as silent sentinels amidst breathtaking landscapes.

For the past six years, New Zealand, particularly the Otago region, has served as his creative haven. Here, his fascination with birds continues to inspire him, translating into powerful sculptures crafted in steel and bronze. However, Bannister's artistic vision extends beyond mere form; " I yearn to weave ancient threads of mythology into my work, weaving fragments of narratives that invite viewers to experience a sense of nature's renewal within themselves."