Rudi Buchanan-Strewe

Working from his studio in Karekare, Auckland, Rudi Buchanan-Strewe produces work in cast bronze, oxidized hand beaten copper and recycled steel. He is skilled in black smithing, metal forging and bronze casting using the lost wax technique. He values the traditional artisan nature of these techniques and the fact that they have been practiced for thousands of years. His work is strongly influenced by the natural world around him with a particular emphasis on New Zealand’s unique and distinctive native flora.

Through beating, cutting and shaping, Buchanan-Strewe transforms his metal materials into organic and rambling wall relief sculptures. He is interested in the contrast between industrial material and natural subject matter. When mounted on the wall his plants cast appealing shadows that further enhance the piece. For some pieces he will accelerate the oxidisation process to create rustic textures on his forms. Buchanan-Strewe's works make for an impressive statement either indoors or outdoors.

Rudi Buchanan-Strewe comes from a strong artistic family as the son of well-known New Zealand Artist, Dean Buchanan. He exhibits his work in select galleries around New Zealand. Buchanan-Strewe was awarded the Carmela McHardy Merit Award in steel, and was a finalist in the Clifton Art Awards.