Guy Humphries
Guy (Slim) Humphries is a metal artist with a fascination for recycling materials. Slim is a fitter and turner by trade and has had various careers including time as a jackaroo, a gold mine supervisor in New Guinea, a steel frame home builder in rural Queensland and operations manager in various roles.Slim delights in making something from nothing – many a property dump and Gold Coast skip bin has been raided to collect materials which become utilised in projects. He is the ultimate ‘bin chicken’ and recycler.
In June 2024, Slim with Grace Gray, the barbed wire specialist, created the Outback Fruit Truck, based in Roma and operated by Barbara and Tyson Dwyer. It was an opportunity to not only showcase both their talents and passions but also to provide a humorous interesting artwork for all ages to enjoy. This sculpture was selected as the winner of Peoples Choice.
In the 2025 Sculptures Outback Competition Slim and his Partner in wire Grace won the competition with first prize and for the second year in a row People’s Choice. The sculpture “Yeah Na She’s Bogged “ will now be a permanent structure along with previous winners on the highway parklands as you drive through Roma.
Island Iron
Island Iron embodies the spirit of the Gold Coast. This iconic sculpture, a life-sized Malibu surfboard leaning against a quintessentially Gold Coast palm tree is a testament to transformation. Sculptor Slim Humphries breathes new life into forgotten materials, rescuing them from neglect, forging them into a powerful symbol of renewal. Each item whispers a story of sustainability; the joy of giving discarded objects a second chance. Island Iron is an invitation to appreciate the beauty hidden within the overlooked, a celebration of art with the heart and environmentally conscious mind.
What sparked the idea for the work you are exhibiting at SWELL this year?
The theme had to be Beach related so a surfboard came to mind. My favourite medium is recycled metal so the surfboard leaning against a palm tree was the final idea. I was then gifted a wonderful collection of old discarded beer kegs bound for the crushers. They were the perfect shape to sculpt a tree and the rest is now finally history.
What’s something people might not realise about the process behind your work?
There is a crab hiding in the roots.
What role does location or environment play in your sculptures?
The surfboard and coconut tree are at home amongst the surf and sand and beach environment.
Is there a moment or memory that shaped you as an artist?
Growing up with a creative skilled tradie father always performing projects to the amazement of others.
What keeps you coming back to sculpture as a form of expression?
I get a buzz out of watching what I’m able to produce pleasure others.
If you could install your work anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
Near the beach in a public place for all to enjoy.
Come and see for yourself at SWELL Sculpture Festival, Pacific Parade, Currumbin 12th – 21st September.