POLOKWANE – The 46-year-old makes pieces that stand out just like his outgoing personality and humour. He explained that he has always enjoyed hand crafting things, particularly using metal. “I don’t consider my work as art but I appreciate the fact that people take an interest in it,” he said.
Gerrie shared that he started crafting as a hobby and his first hand-crafted project was a windmill that he made from kebab sticks and wire. It took him a few days to complete because he was learning by trial and error, until he had a final product that he was happy with.
“It’s a learning process and I am still growing. I think everyone can make something beautiful out of scrap,” he said.
He added that people often come to him with their own ideas inspired by some of his previous work that they saw and liked. He then selects from the different materials that he has and tries to create something.
“Most of my materials are recycled. I go to scrapyards and ask people if they have anything from bearings, chains and pieces of rough metals of all sorts. All these come together to create a complete project,” he explained.
His fondest design yet is a metal and gear guitar which took him several days to complete. His biggest challenge is finding the right materials to make his crafts and not having enough time to work on what he enjoys. “Beate Lehmacher, my fiancé, has been by my side and always supports my ideas,” he added.
To view his artwork contact him on 071 492 1588.
