Former educator bringing life back to archaic tools

Revealing the former glory of tools hidden beneath layers of rust is proving deeply satisfying for Gary O’Shea after a 40-year career in education, which included the head master’s role at Nelson College for 13.5 years before his retirement last year.

It was upon perusing the local recycle centre and coming across two old pitchforks, the seed for ‘Rustic Art’ was planted.

“I thought what would they look like if they were polished up and put on some nice wood,” says Gary.

Those pitchforks now form his logo, and since then his acquisition of further tools has led to a number of other pieces being produced, keeping him busy during this year’s Covid-19 lockdown.

“I found a lot of people making little animals and windmills out of old tools but didn’t see anyone tak- ing tools and bringing them back to life.”

And that’s exactly what Gary is doing. Using tools that were actively used more than 100 years ago, he’s cleaning them up and then cleverly assembling on carefully matched wood to restore their glory.

“The artistic part is actually matching the shape of the wood with the tool itself. I’m keeping things as original as possible and really enjoying it.”

Wood from an old plum tree at Nelson College is proving useful for the projects, and now the Sprig & Fern in Motueka is displaying his creations.

“I didn’t think of it as a commercial project, I just enjoyed doing it.”

Now though, Gary is offering his skills for commissioned pieces.

“It’s perfect for people with a favourite old tool from the shed that I can bring to life as a wall plaque or table piece. For some it’s the only physical memory of passed on loved ones and a way to evoke memories. Each one is completely unique and can’t be replicated.”

With ideas brewing for large sizes, Gary’s finding his new found passion exceptionally rewarding as he reveals the hidden treasure beneath layers of rust.

To view Gary’s work visit the Sprig & Fern and to contact him for commissioned pieces please either email gary@ edgedu.co.nz or phone 0276333737.