Carol Russell / Artist
Carol Russell is a Tasmanian-born artist now based in Melbourne, working primarily with Tasmanian timbers. She spends several months each year travelling throughout Tasmania, visiting family and exploring the landscape that continues to inspire her work.
Her practice focuses on small interpretive sculptures that invite narrative and imagination from the viewer. With a particular interest in animals, Carol seeks to capture the essential character and presence of her subjects rather than literal representation. Her work has been described as contemporary vernacular folk art, combining strong form with texture, painted finishes, and the play of light across hand-carved surfaces. Working exclusively with hand tools, she embraces the slow and deliberate carving process, allowing the marks of razor-sharp tools to remain visible within the finished piece.
Originally working as a furniture maker, Carol became increasingly fascinated by the smaller offcuts and discarded pieces of timber left behind in the workshop. Over time, this curiosity evolved into a dedicated carving practice centred around making meaningful work from even the smallest fragments of timber. Her approach reflects a deep respect for the material and a belief in using every part of the tree wherever possible.
Carol has exhibited in galleries throughout Australia, is a regular contributor to Australian Wood Review magazine, and also teaches carving from her Melbourne studio.
“I believe that no matter what you make from timber, you can’t improve on a tree. I don’t like to see trees cut down if it’s not necessary and I believe in using every bit. Making small work means I can find a use for everything. It’s a privilege to work with such beautiful material.”