Coles's work in a styled room
Coles portrait
Artist

Coles

His work turns the banal into a sharp critique of media saturation and environmental impact.

48 Works

Works by Coles

48 pieces

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About Coles

Coles receives 20% of every sale

Transparent compensation, always.

Coles is a British-Australian sculptor who began his formal training at the Ravensbourne, Wimbledon, and Glasgow Schools of Art. The grandson of sculptor Norman Sillman, he moved to Sydney in the early 1990s, where he began developing a practice rooted in urban intervention and social commentary. His work is deeply informed by his background as a long-time photographer seeking to reconnect with his inner artist. His practice centers on the production of cast concrete sculptures that replicate banal, everyday items. By placing these objects in public spaces across Sydney, Melbourne, and Europe, he engages directly with the community. His work often utilizes dark humor to address heavy themes such as media saturation, environmental destruction, and the impact of consumer culture on the modern world.

Visual voice

Cast concrete sculptures of mundane objects like mobile phones, remote controls, and balaclavas. These pieces frequently feature carved text and phrases that provide a sharp, humorous critique of consumerism and environmental issues.
Cast ConcreteUrban InterventionConsumer CritiqueDark HumorSocial CommentaryFound Objects
Good to know

Coles — questions answered

What materials does Coles primarily use for his sculptures?

He primarily works with cast concrete to create durable, tactile sculptures of everyday items.

What are the recurring themes in his work?

His pieces often address consumerism, media saturation, and environmental destruction, frequently using dark humor to engage the viewer.

Where can his art be found?

His sculptures are installed in urban spaces globally, including Sydney, Melbourne, and various locations across Europe, as well as in gallery settings.

What is the artist's professional background?

He is a British-born artist who trained at Ravensbourne, Wimbledon, and Glasgow Schools of Art before relocating to Australia.

Why are his street works often moved or taken by the public?

Because his sculptures are often small, portable, and installed in accessible public areas, they are frequently collected or moved by people who encounter them.

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