Who I Am

I am Rhys Gower, a British stone sculptor and heritage stonemason with a passion for creating original hand-carved sculptures from natural stone.

 

My connection with stone began long before my professional career. Growing up on Portland Bill on the Jurassic Coast, I spent much of my childhood exploring the coastline and climbing among the old quarries. Surrounded by stone shaped over millions of years, I developed a fascination with its textures, colours, fossils and the stories held within different geological periods.

 

This early interest led me to study stonemasonry at Weymouth College, providing the foundations for a career that would combine traditional craftsmanship, heritage conservation and sculpture.

 

My background is rooted in traditional stonemasonry and the conservation of historic buildings, where I have spent many years developing the skills, techniques and understanding of stone that now influence my sculptural work. Working on heritage projects has given me a deep respect for craftsmanship, permanence and the unique character found within every piece of stone.

 

Alongside my professional stonemasonry career, I have developed a body of sculptural work that combines traditional hand-carving techniques with contemporary artistic ideas.

 

Many of my sculptures incorporate everyday objects, historical influences and natural forms, inviting viewers to look at familiar subjects in a new way.

 

Every piece begins as a solid block of stone and is carved entirely by hand. I enjoy working with the stone rather than against it, allowing its natural textures, fossils and features to contribute to the finished sculpture.

 

No two pieces are ever identical, and each sculpture is created as a unique work. In 2026, my work was selected for Delamore Arts, one of the South West's most respected sculpture and contemporary art exhibitions. This represented an important milestone in my sculptural practice and provided the opportunity to exhibit alongside established artists from across the region.

 

Through Artistry in Stone, I continue to create original sculptures that celebrate craftsmanship, imagination and the enduring beauty of stone.

 

Thank you for taking the time to visit my website and explore my work.