Imagine having one of these sculptures in your own backyard? Don't imagine — get one.
“Friends who meet over beers and take risks together often find the best success.”
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You might wonder who said that. To be honest, I’m not sure, but it certainly rings true for mates and business partners, Tank and Steve Tobin — the duo behind Tank & Tobin Sculpture Works.
Over the past four years they have proven that the power of friendship, risk-taking, and a shared vision can create something extraordinary, and, of course, they do confirm they enjoy a cold beer or two together.
Featured earlier this year in lovethegv’s first edition of Heart the Art, I had the chance to catch up with Tank and Steve to see how their business was progressing.
And it’s safe to say they have been creating some truly big things.
When I say big, I mean really big — metal sculptures reaching up to six metres in height.
And it’s not just one or two. They have spent countless hours at their Longwood studio, crafting extraordinary pieces with a level of refined detail that few can match.
This year’s success has seen them host a sell-out exhibition at the Shepparton Brewery, followed by a recent open day sculpture exhibition in Longwood, attracting over 300 visitors.
Despite the sweltering 37℃ heat, the weather didn’t deter viewers from coming out to see the incredible work on display.
More than 300 people visited the Tank & Tobin Sculpture Works open day, held in Longwood last month.
“The sculptures were displayed as a trail in a shaded bushland setting, and local friends and family handed out free refreshments and sausages,” Steve said.
“People enjoyed wandering through the park like setting with a cold drink in their hand whilst the kids had a great run around.
“The donation tin by the barbecue raised $280 for the Longwood action group. It was great to meet so many lovely people, we had visitors from all over the state.”
Tank also expressed his gratitude to family and friends for their support, as well as to the visitors who purchased little mementos on the day.
Lots of cool and quirky house sculptures where snapped up by buyers.
However, there was another exciting conversation sparked about the future potential of the site.
The pair discussed the possibility of turning it into a sculpture park — a place families from all over the country could visit.
Given the remarkable quality of their work, it’s easy to imagine how it could become a must-visit destination, right here in the Goulburn Valley.
A lot of attention to detail goes into making these incredible bird sculptures.
"We host our open days because we’re frequently asked if people can come out to see our sculptures,” Tank said.
“This has sparked the idea of creating a permanent sculpture park in Longwood.
“While the project is still in its early stages and there’s plenty of planning and sculpture building ahead, but we’re excited about the potential.
“We believe it will be a fantastic addition to Longwood and the Strathbogie Shire — and, who knows, it might just be our grand vision for the future ... and our retirement.”
While retirement is still a few years off for these two, it’s easy to imagine them thriving in this new venture.
As I mentioned earlier, with their strong mateship and shared love for a cold beer, it seems like the perfect fit for them.
The open day had all different types of sculptures on display around a tranquil bush setting.
"We’ll kick back, crack open a few beers, and have a chat with tourists,” Tank said.
“Maybe we’ll even offer ‘guided tours’ — but only if they’re up for a bit of banter and a cold drink along the way,” Steve added.
“It’ll be relaxed, no fancy speeches, just us sharing our work and having a laugh. If the sculptures don’t impress them, at least the beers will.”
To follow Tank & Tobin Sculpture Works' adventures, beer shenanigans, future open day details and all the big things to come — both sculptures and future plans — make sure you check out their socials on Facebook and Instagram.
Many kids enjoyed the day just as much as the adults, with plenty to see and do for them too.
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