Born in Germany and raised in Australia, Mick Doellinger has called the U.S. home since 2003. For over 40 years Mick has focused his time & energies on sculpting; beginning with more scientific sculpting of the mannikins used in the taxidermy industry, to now solely immersing himself in the creation of fine art sculpture, Mick’s subjects span the globe and highlight his varied interests.
“My earlier work was much more literal, but over time I’ve preferred to not ‘overwork’ the clay. With this looser style, collectors of my work will continue to notice something they hadn’t seen before, even if it’s just a partial fingerprint or smudge. These slight ‘imperfections’ are a reminder of the hands-on sculpting process, kept frozen in the finished bronze.”
Doellinger strives to capture “the essence” of an animal, and hopes viewers will connect with his sculptures in some way, noticing the subtle nuances of the shape, motion or character in each piece.
“For me, it’s less about creating a perfect replica of an animal, and more about sculpting a narrative or moment in time.”
Mick’s lifelong accumulation of in-depth knowledge of animals has given him unique insights into their anatomy, movements and behavior. From his many years of rodeo, commercial butchering, guiding & wildlife management, Doellinger believes his time in the field, studying the subjects & environments they occupy, is critical to his creative process.
“Although I’ve been sculpting most of my life, I continue to be inspired by new possibilities and feel my best years are still ahead.”
