FREDERICK BEEL
Frederick Beel is a semi-retired fitter machinist, toolmaker, and welder with a creative and inventive spirit. His extensive skills in working with various materials, especially metal, have led to several large public art commissions and numerous awards. He served as Chairperson for the Hedland Arts Council (HArtz) in WA for six years and is actively involved with Sculptures Qld, Arts Connect on the Sunshine Coast, and Tamborine Mountain Arts Collective (TMac). Mentored by Jon Tarry and trained by Mathew Hardy and Vlase Nikoleski, Frederick continues to seek new training and knowledge.
Currently, there are 8,377 active satellites orbiting the planet. 5,420 of these are owned by Elon Musk, while Jeff Bezos is planning to launch another 3,236. The International Telecommunications Union, which books and approves all launches, has 1 million filings for future satellite launches. While some of these satellites are incredibly important, a significant number are designed solely to generate profit. Is this the time to be spending money on space and space exploration, especially when our home planet is in dire need of our care and attention?
Can you describe your creative process from concept to completion?
In regards my entry in the ’24 SWELL exhibition my attraction to the sphere still remains. I am constantly looking at new and different ways to highlight it’s properties. Movement also played an important role in my work. My piece is a progression of earlier ongoing concepts.
Where do you look for inspiration? What themes do you find most interesting?
I am most interested in nature, environment, the political and human behaviours.
What role does location or environment play in your sculptures?
The location and environment is key, fortunately with SWELL I am very familiar with this location and what it can offer. I feel it’s important that the work compliment and be relevant.
How do you feel when you see people interacting with your sculptures?
My work generally causes positive conversations and as such I derive great pleasure when observing and communicating to the viewers.
Describe your dream project.
I would like to eventually be involved in a large public art piece in Queensland, ideally, fully my own work.
Instagram @ironmongrelfred
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Come and see for yourself at SWELL Sculpture Festival, Pacific Parade, Currumbin 6th – 15th September.