By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
Olinda’s assemblage sculptor artist recently took a unique trip to the United States to create a one-of-a-kind phoenix sculpture for an old friend turned client.
David Cox known for his bespoke artwork, was contacted by a friend from his past – a psychotherapist and motivational speaker living in Atlanta, Georgia.
Inspired by the artist’s work, the client wanted a custom piece, but instead of having it shipped, he decided to fly Mr Cox out to the US to collaborate more closely on the creation.
“It’s not how I usually work,” Mr Cox said.
“I prefer to tailor my pieces based on getting to know the person who will live with it, so this trip gave me a chance to really understand my client, his life, and what matters to him.”
Over a week of deep conversations and many bottles of wine, the pair discussed everything from philosophy and religion to the role of art in personal growth.
Mr Cox learned that his client was passionate about balancing his life, with interests in clockmaking, motorcycles, and even a strange panda logo that held personal significance.
These themes would become central to the sculpture, which measured two metres wide by one metre tall – about the size of a tall person.
The process of making the sculpture was a collaboration between Mr cox’s creative ideas and his client’s vision.
He incorporated elements like his client’s panda logo, which had been 3D printed by the costume designer from ‘The Walking Dead’ and ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp’, Matthew X trinkle.
The artwork had a mix of the artist’s signature style with personal touches that reflected his client’s unique lifestyle and professional focus.
Mr Cox’s time in the US also brought some cultural surprises.
He found himself navigating the American DIY store system, where a simple request for “art and craft” supplies turned into a hilarious language barrier moment.
“It took me a while to figure out how to say ‘arts and crafts’ in American English,” he laughed.
Aside from the challenges of adjusting to different systems and materials, one of the trip’s highlights was an unforgettable experience at an NFL game.
His client, a season ticket holder for the Atlanta Falcons, took him to a game where David had the rare chance to walk onto the field and help unfurl a massive flag in front of 85,000 spectators.
Despite the excitement of the trip, the real reward came when the sculpture was finally installed in the client’s home.
“The reactions were incredible – lots of ‘wows’ and even some colourful language, but in the best way,” he said.
“It was a little outside my usual style, but the client was thrilled – that’s all that matters.”
The project was completed just in time for Mr Cox to catch his flight back to Australia, and he’s already looking forward to more international opportunities.
“If the right project comes along, I’m definitely open to working abroad again. There’s a lot of interest from overseas, and it’s exciting to see how art can bring people together across borders,” he said.
His trip to the US not only resulted in a stunning piece of art but also opened the door to future collaborations and exhibitions abroad.
It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best way to create something truly special is to take a leap – and a plane ride – halfway across the world.
