About Sculpted Metals and the Artist – Nathan Whitehead, Sculptor
Welcome to Sculpted Metals—a space where I share just a glimpse of the work I’ve created over a lifetime of exploring form, texture, and the beauty of New Zealand’s native wildlife.
This website showcases a curated selection of handcrafted metal sculptures, though it’s impossible to capture the full journey here. I’ve been creating artwork of one kind or another for as long as I can remember. Painting in oils, watercolours, and pastels, then carving bone, stone, and wood as a young man. That path eventually led me to what has become my life’s work: sculptural bronze art.
What you see here are my sculptural interpretations of New Zealand wildlife, native birds, and other works inspired by the land, sea, and stories of Aotearoa. While there are many artists sculpting creatures like the tuatara, what I offer is my own artistic voice—original New Zealand artwork forged in bronze and stainless steel, made by hand, and guided by both tradition and innovation.
I am of Māori and European descent. Something I am deeply proud of, and it shapes my connection to the whenua (land) and the subjects I choose to sculpt.
From Concept to Completion
Every piece begins with an idea—refined through observation, planning, and then shaping the clay with my hands. The process is detailed and immersive. From the first wax or clay form through to mould making, ceramic shell building, and final bronze casting, each stage demands care, discipline, and precision.
I work using the lost wax bronze casting process, an ancient method that allows for exceptional detail and durability. While casting requires specialised equipment, much of it I built myself, under the guidance of my good friend and foundry tradesman, Wikus Du’Pree.
Why Bronze?
Bronze is my preferred medium—strong, beautiful, and long-lasting. A well-cast bronze sculpture can survive for centuries, and there’s deep satisfaction in knowing that the artwork will outlive me, passed down as a family heirloom or gifted as a corporate treasure. My sculptures have found homes all over the world, and many collectors return to commission more.
Quality Over Quantity
Everything I do is by hand. I don’t mass-produce work, and I don’t cast for other artists—but I’m always happy to support others in finding the right advice or direction. While I prefer to sculpt freely and create pieces that speak to me, I do take custom commissions on selected works, especially if an item is out of stock or a client has a strong connection to one of my past creations.
Although I once stepped back from working with stainless steel, the demand from loyal collectors has brought it back—and I now continue to take stainless orders by phone or through the website.
Always Evolving
I’m always learning—whether it’s refining the sculpting process or mastering the science and techniques behind casting. Every sculpture teaches me something new, and even when mistakes happen, I see them as part of the journey. Whether it’s a miniature or a monument, I hold myself to a high standard and strive to improve with each creation.
I’m currently working on a few new collectable series, so be sure to follow along here or on my Sculpted Metals Facebook page to see them as they’re completed.
Thank you for supporting me as a New Zealand artist, and for taking the time to explore my work. It’s not all about money—it’s about legacy, craftsmanship, and continuing to grow as a sculptor. Learn more about Nathan Whitehead, the sculptor behind Sculpted Metals
The best is yet to come.
– Nathan Whitehead
Sculptor | Founder of Sculpted Metals
Sculpted Metals Art Gallery Owner Nathan Whitehead