Discover the intriguing story of Carter Art at Main Road in Research, Victoria , where ordinary metal transforms into extraordinary art. More than just a workshop, it’s a vibrant realm of creativity where imagination shapes metal into unforgettable masterpieces. Read on!
How often do you drive past a metal workshop anywhere in the world and find yourself circling back, wondering if you’re dreaming? Probably never. But if you happen to go past Carter Art, prepare to stop.
Neil Carter and Casey Carter: Neil Carter and Casey Carter stand behind “The Giant Peacock,” one of their art creations, in their Workshop, Carter Art.
A giant peacock stares you in the eye, accompanied by a striking statue of Bunjil the Eagle. And that’s just the beginning. Art in metal is everywhere. Inside the workshop, your gaze will be captured by brilliant metal creations, from stagecoaches and bull heads to logos, wild animals, and human-like creatures—the possibilities are endless!
Stepping into the showroom feels like entering a warm, welcoming metal zoo! Monkeys made from motorcycle chains, metal fish of all shapes and sizes, metal reptiles, and incredibly realistic metal grapes are just the tip of the iceberg. On the bench lie albums filled with hundreds of unique projects Carter Art has successfully delivered since 1980.
At Panton Primary School, Carter Art brought an extraordinary vision to life. Neil Carter crafted intricate steel panels, each etched with the children’s artwork, transforming their creations into timeless works of art. These panels not only preserve the students’ creativity for generations to come but also serve as a lasting testament to the power of imagination, making the school a truly inspiring place to behold.
Founded by Neil Carter more than four decades ago, Carter Art has deep roots in passion and craftsmanship. Neil is a pro welder with 7 Certifications in Engineering (Cert I, II, III, IIIe, IV, V, VII) . Neil’s journey began at a young age, captivated by the artistry and potential of welding.
By the time he was 25, he was already a skilled professional, working high above massive petroleum tanks for a leading petroleum company.
Yet, even in the midst of the intense, high-altitude work, Neil’s creativity never took a backseat. “I look at things and see what they can become if I add some personality to them,” he said, examining a teaspoon in his hand. At that moment, I realised that if he had his welding gun close by, he might just turn that teaspoon into a wasp!
Some of the standout pieces in the Carter Art collection are displayed proudly in the gallery at the metal workshop in Research.
“To me, art is all about giving something personality; it has to be that way,” Neil declares.
This philosophy shines through in the four monkeys he created as a tribute to each of his sons. “This one is the excitable one,” he said, pointing at a bubbly, smiling monkey on the shelf. On closer examination, I noticed the monkey had human-like feet and genitals, complete with a backside! Clever and humorous, for sure. The iconic badge on its right foot, engraved with “Carter Art,” revealed Neil’s attention to detail—even in his personal projects. A true mark of dedication and commitment.
The Excitable One: Another piece by Neil, “The Excitable One,” features four monkeys and serves as a tribute to his son.
Carter Art transforms anything into art. Neil’s love for motorcycles has led him to repurpose motorcycle parts into phenomenal pieces. If you visit Dr. Kevin Turley, a chiropractor in Hurstbridge, you might notice a peculiar yet intriguing spine sculpture crafted from motorcycle gearbox parts. This unique piece showcases not just skill and talent but the passion and personality infused into every creation. Each artwork tells a story, reflecting the heart and dedication of its maker.
Carter Art has produced countless successful pieces, selling locally and nationally. They even honoured Mick Woiwod’s last wish. Mick, a legendary Australian known as Murrup Ngooloo (“Spirit Voice”), was a local historian and founder of the Nillumbik Reconciliation Group. During his lifetime, he authored over 25 books promoting peace and reconciliation. Mick’s last wish was to soar with Bunjil the Eagle. Neil crafted an eagle to be laid on Mick’s tomb, and then made another for keep in memory of the legend.
Bunjil the Eagle: A commission of Bunjil the Eagle created by Cater Art to respect the will of the legend Mick Woiwood.
The workshop has also collaborated closely with renowned mosaic artist Deborah Halpern on many commissions, consistently delivering quality at its best. Carter Art is now featured on The Big Art Shop as a BIG Art Business and is open for opportunities.
Today, Carter Art flows with new energy. One of Neil’s best students and lifelong business partner is his son, Casey. Together, they continue the family legacy with passion and skill, making the workshop a lively place as they combine ideas and create masterpieces that are truly rare finds.
While Neil enjoys creating with metal, his main goal is to see Casey succeed. Casey’s attention to detail, precision, and creativity are evident from the moment you meet him. His bubbly personality and welcoming nature make the workshop an inviting place to be.
For all your needs in steel gate installation, metal fabrication services, custom steel art, steel cutting services, metal sculpture, and artisan metalworks, Carter Art is the destination to visit. Discover the magic of metal art at Carter Art . You can reach out to Carter Art with just a click of a button. Search for Carter Art on The Big Art Shop, click the inquiry button, and your message will be sent straight to the metal workshop! or Visit them in person at 1637 Main Rd, Research VIC 3095.
