Solid bronze and Australian made sculpture, Loggerhead Turtle, 8cm L x 8cm W approx, by Louise and Pete Smit at their Queensland foundry, arguably the smallest commercial foundry in Australia. In the ocean in their natural state, the Loggerhead Turtles are a motley brown colour, very unattractive and boring. So Pete colours them with the blue/green patina imagining them as being viewed underwater in a blue ocean, where this colour is presented of the turtles in the water of the colourful great barrier reef. Although the same mix is used on any one batch the resulting colour is always different. The casting temperature, the mass, humidity and several other factors determine the outcome and is very difficult to replicate. So, each piece is unique.
They use the 3000-year-old Lost Wax Process using the traditional foundry casting technique. Every cast is unique with each piece first produced in wax which is then coated in a ceramic slurry to build a shell of 5mm thickness. The wax is then shock eliminated at 1000 C in a kiln, sintering the shell at the same time. The wax is recycled. Molten bronze is then poured into the shell. After cooling, each shell is sandblasted to reveal the bronze, which is patinated, polished and clear coated. Enthralled by the majesty and diversity of the wildlife in this magnificent land and captivated by even the smallest of its creatures, Pete’s research for new subjects will never end.
Pete Smit (Retired)
Pete and Louise Smit, Cobble Cast, have been creating beautiful solid bronze pieces for more than 30 years in their small foundry in Queensland. They use the 3,000 year old Lost Wax Process using traditional casting techniques. Each piece is handled up to 18 times during the process and it is unconditionally guaranteed.
The store I went to is located in the heart of Melbourne CBD in one of its oldest and finest arcades. But even finer and more attractive was the craftsmanship of the bronze and wooden sculptures and figurines made by whole hearted Australians using age-old processes. If you are fond of good quality handicrafts then this truly a place to visit. Wish well to the business and it's manufacturers.
- Sabyasachister
I work for an international company and am often asked by colleagues visiting from other parts of the world where they can find genuine, Australian made pieces to take home. Australian by Design is a winner every single time. This beautiful store and gallery in more spacious premises is a bit more challenging to find in its new location, but it's worth it. If you're looking for authentic, high quality Australian arts and crafts, with price points for everyone, this gem is worth seeking out.
- Sonia Edwards
Very cool little shop tucked away upstairs. The art here is really authentic. I've purchased a hand carved boomerang with beautiful art. I don't think you can get much better crafted boomerangs by aboriginal artists anywhere else.
We noticed the display case while touring the Block Arcade and made a point to return for a visit to the shop. It was well worth it. Beautiful works of art and unique souvenirs of our trip to Australia. The proprietor was most friendly and helpful tucking in some information on the artist whose work I had purchased. I highly recommend seeking out this shop. You won't be disappointed!
- Mary Murphy
Spent some time to find this shop, remember to take the Lift 1(No.1) in Block Arcade and press 3rd floor, follow the sign then you will find it. The owner is very friendly and passionate of explaning different kinds of workpiece and the decoration of the shop, he is also very patient on explaining different wood types among all those pens as well. By the time I visited, there were not much various types of paintings, but there were many different handiwork such as coasters, earrings, sketches, pens, wood carving etc. I bought a handmade roller ball pen made with red mallee burl wood. And the prices of those Australian handiwork are cheaper than other shops as it is located upstairs. Good customer service as well, highly recommend to visit this shop!
- Jacky Fung
Gorgeous pieces to add to a collection or as a solo feature in your home. Wonderfully helpful and knowledgeable staff. Highly recommended to tourists looking for a unique souvenir or to locals wanting to up their decor game. A must visit shop!!!
- Steph Hiltz
You really have to find this store. Search for it when you're in the Block Arcade. it is situated on the third floor. Take the elevator and enter a world of Australian made exquisite paintings, jewels and art. All at (in my opinion) affordable prices.
- Philippe Francois
Friendly and welcoming staff. Eager to explain and guide everything they have
- Angga Dewa
Hard to find a store like this in Melbourne these days. Great service, lovely store! Will come again!
- Cathy Zhang
A true gem of Melbourne a must visit for the person who wants to gift themselves or others with uniquely Australian made arts craft and design collectables.
-Barry Pullar
Absolutely lovely shop for authentic, hand-made Australian art and gifts. If you are looking for Australian art in general, or a meaningful, hand-crafted souvenir to take back home, this is THE place!
- Tibbo Dent
Loved shopping at this shop. Great artwork.
- Scot Duke
Perfect and the best place to buy original Australian made souvenir, not Chinese ones. Such nice and friendly staff. Thanks heaps!
- Orod Akhbari
A great wee shop with very friendly and most helpful staff. Lovely to see gifts and souvenirs that you know are made in Australia. Highly recommended but its tucked away. F loor 3 in the lift opposite Hopetoun Tearoom in the Block Arcade.
- Fran Hadden
Very good range and friendly service but a little tricky to find but well worth the effort.
- Tony Taouk
Two small rooms on the 3rd floor. A little difficult to find but well worth the effort for the authentic art and charming staff.
- Linda B
Just happened to see the display/ sign while at The Block Arcade. We went to the 3rd floor and found this wonderful shop carrying only Australian-made items. The proprietor was so very nice and helpful and provided great advice and information on the various items she carried in her store. I would highly recommend visiting this establishment for any keepsakes that are authentic.
- A. Dalal
The quality of the souvenirs were amazing for the price paid which was accompanied by fantastic service
- Daniel De Oliveira
Simply the best if you are looking for Australiana. Lovely art, souvenirs, jewelry and gifts for any budget with none of the cheap dreck in the typical souvenir shops. Everything truly Australian, good quality, and obviously chosen personally with care and attention. The staff is especially friendly and quick to offer information, recommendations, and a friendly chat. Be sure not to miss it tucked away upstairs!
- Leigh Moyer
(Translated by Google) Great service! The Lord thanked us that we found the store, unfortunately it is not easy but it is worth the effort because you can buy souvenirs made in Australia here! I recommend! (Original) super obsługa! Pan nam podziękował że znaleźliśmy sklep, nie jest to niestety łatwe ale warto się wysilić ponieważ można tu zakupić pamiątki wyprodukowane w Australii! Polecam!
- Karolina Modrzejewska
This place is a brilliant find! Excellent service and beautifully crafted things to buy. I highly recommend this shop.
Aly
Wonderful little shop filled with unique Australian art and souvenirs at very reasonable prices. Prefect for gifts!
Kathy
I love this store. Unique, high quality items made by actual Australian artists. Good prices too.
Paul Martignoli
Unique, beautiful, Australian made, with fabulous service from Bill. A real treasure trove - well worth the effort to find the shop (Level 3 in the Block Arcade). Highly recommended for those looking for gifts or treasures for the home. ** Eamonn Vereker glass bowls, vases etc are spectacular (photos don't do them justice).
Emer Campbell
I love this store! Incredible range of unique quality gifts and artwork all made in Australia and at affordable prices. A gem in Melbourne for residents and tourists alike. Go visit on Level 3 (Room 303) Block Arcade (Take Lift No 1 opposite Hopetoun Tea Rooms), you won't be disappointed. Friendly staff too.
Kathy
I bought a magpie pin to celebrate my husband's citizenship, and I couldn't be happier with the product. I received it on the following day and the quality is amazing! I'll definitely shop here again! Thank you, guys!
