Somerville Community Art Space - Heiko Griessbach

Next date: Friday, 19 June 2026 | 06:00 AM to Wednesday, 29 July 2026 | 11:00 AM

Image: Crying for loneliness 8 x 21 x 8cm

Exhibition Title: Beachfinds

Wednesday 27 May – Wednesday 29 July 2026

This exhibition presents sculptural works by Heiko Griessbach, created from natural materials collected along local beaches. Inspired by driftwood, stones, sea sponges and other found objects, Griessbach transforms these materials into unique sculptures of varying sizes and meaning.

Rather than seeing a branch simply as a branch, Griessbach often imagines snakes, worms or mythical creatures within the forms he discovers. Some works resemble hybrid animals, while others evoke landscapes from imagined worlds. Through this process, the exhibition reflects both the natural character of the found materials and the artist's imaginative interpretation of them.

About the artist:

Heiko Griessbach (b. 1966, Germany) has always been drawn to creativity and making things by hand. Before moving to Australia, he worked in Berlin for many years as a geological driller before retraining and working as a microtechnologist. Alongside his professional career, he has also written and self-published eBooks through Amazon publishing.

In 2023, Griessbach relocated to Australia and now lives on the Mornington Peninsula. Surrounded by the coastline and natural beauty of the region, he began collecting driftwood, sea glass, stones, shells and other beach finds during long walks along local beaches, always respecting protected National Park areas.

Since beginning his art practice in 2024, Griessbach has transformed these found materials into small sculptures and assemblage artworks. His work reflects a deep appreciation for nature, sustainability and the unique character of objects shaped by the ocean.