For over 28 years, Peter Syndicas has crafted abstract figurative sculptures inspired by the intricate patterns of plant life. His artistic journey began with a chance discovery of a simple twig that resembled an abstract human form, sparking an ongoing exploration of the figurative in organic fractals. Twigs—fragile and shaped by the elements—served as the foundation for his larger works, which are translated into bronze, steel, and stone, offering a striking contrast to their natural delicacy.
Raised as the son of artist Anthony Syndicas, Peter never formally studied art. Instead, he developed his techniques through trial and error, driven by a desire to recreate these forms on a grander scale. Over time, he honed his skills across a variety of mediums and has recently become passionate about working with Australian stones, particularly South Australian marbles, granites, and stromatolites.
Peter’s work is represented by galleries across Australia and held in private collections worldwide, including in Dubai, Singapore, and the United States. His art was recently featured in a commissioned series of large-scale sculptures for the Marina Bay Sands refurbishment in Singapore, further cementing his reputation on the international stage.
Today, Syndicas continues to explore his fascination with fractals in nature, drawing endless inspiration from the world around him.
In 1997, during a camping trip in Licola, Victoria, Peter was on the hunt for a twig to hold his marshmallows over the campfire. After whittling away at a small branch, he shaped the perfect stick—one that could hold two marshmallows at once. But it wasn’t until after he’d finished his treats that he noticed something unexpected: an abstract human form hidden in the stick. In that moment, Peter felt as if he’d seen the world around him in a whole new light—like discovering nature’s hidden beauty for the very first time.
It was this simple yet profound moment that sparked Peter’s passion for sculpting, leading him to pursue it professionally—and ultimately change his life.
The twig pictured here is the “Marshmallow Stick” from Licola which was the original spark of inspiration that helped Syndicas discover nature.
