The chisel as a metaphor for life

Artist David Puustinen draws up his next piece

Featured sculptures

Becoming

Spirit Pole

Prow

Working as a sculptor reminds me of the importance of staying connected to the dream space and moving beyond self imposed belief systems. A block of wood mirrors my internal block that I must cut into as to explore and to reveal my true feeling nature. It holds a deep space for me to journey and release what illusions I hold onto. Transmuting what seems to be futile in exchange for a space of self knowing.

Artist Statement

Sound Shell is a unique carving, carved from Tasmanian Celery Top Pine.

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Drooping lady. Returning back to the earth. Defiant, strong and poised.
Angel sits contemplative of how to meet a fall where her wings were clipped. Feeling the gravity of the human experience and choosing to learn the lessons to return back to full flight again
‘The Becoming’. A wood sculpture exhibiting an unfurling spiral. Seated ion a large wooden base. Exhibiting a forward motion and heal upon the water it sails.
‘The Beginning’. A wood sculpture exhibiting a semetrially balanced orgaing form. It reminds me of a fish.
Exhibition of sculptures by David Puustinen at Artemisia Gallery in Feb 2026, Melbourne
David Puustinen at his exhibition opening of sculptures at Artemisia Gallery Feb 2026 Melbourne

I'd seen David's sculptures on his Substack platform, but to actually view them was quite something else. Their overall form, size, detail, finish, colour, the chisel marks all invited closer inspection, and a definite need to touch and stroke them (with permission). It now seems obvious, but I wasn't expecting this reaction, or the level to which I felt David's essence in these creations. It's exciting watching him transition to different forms, and I particularly loved the flow and majesty of these pieces. Thank you David, it's a privilege to be witnessing your journey.

Anonymous

"From solid logs to forms that embody flow and energy is a journey that exposes the heart of the artist.  David has clearly explored his deepest well to discover what lies beneath the surface in a brave and dedicated year’s work.  Reemerging as the sculptor that has always been within, he interprets the otherwise unspoken language of his soul through the medium of the Divine's expression of spirit in trees." ~ Karen

'After viewing David's 2024 sculptural exhibition it became apparent to me that the work was a visceral representation of his values and authenticity…and it goes deep and to the core.’

John Bodin (Yarra Valley - Melbourne)

I have known Dave Puustinen for over 10 years. In that time I have had a complicated and stunning paving design made at my residence by Dave which is commented on by many visitors to our house. The detail he went to with this was quite extraordinary. This is indicative of Dave as a genuine artisan.

I have also closely followed Dave’s sculptural journey over recent times and can say that his work reflects again the genuine artisan that he is. I am astounded at the detail and complexity of his work and congratulate him on completing the various works which make up his exhibition. I also know the sheer number of man hours he has put into each piece to achieve the high quality finish he has achieved.

I am certain that his sculptures will become quickly very collectible and increasingly valuable over time

Peter Ferguson

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Contact me for occasional updates or subscribe to my Substack series https://substack.com/@davidpuustinen