A WELDER whose partner spent her final days in Christchurch Hospital’s Macmillan unit has unveiled his third artwork to be auctioned for the hospice.

Gary Smith from Bournemouth is an aerospace welder by day, but in his spare time, he creates welded art.

His latest work, ‘New Beginnings,’ is a three-piece sculpture featuring a host of butterflies covered in 24ct gold.

It was created for Macmillan and will be auctioned at their annual Flutterby Ball on Friday, October 4.

Gary’s partner Fiona died at the Macmillan Unit in 2013, just months after her cancer diagnosis.

Gary said: “The care that Fiona received was outstanding. Nothing was too much trouble, and I’ll be forever grateful for that.

“I feel honoured to be able to use my art to support the hospice’s work, it’s become a part of my life.”

Gary added: “I hope my latest sculpture will raise a really impressive amount for Macmillan Caring Locally.

“My two previous butterfly-themed sculptures for the charity – Flutterby and The Visitor – were made of unwanted cutlery and metal washers and raised a great deal.”

Each butterfly in Gary’s sculpture, ‘New Beginnings,’ is formed in stainless steel, covered in 24ct gold, and set against a backdrop of copper and stainless steel.

Gary Smith’s New Beginnings sculpture which is bathed in real gold and will go under the hammer for the charity next month (October).Gary Smith’s New Beginnings sculpture which is bathed in real gold and will go under the hammer for the charity next month (October). (Image: Submitted)

“I liked the idea of being able to see a butterfly slowly emerge in the first and second panels before being joined by a host of glorious butterflies in the third panel.

“If it were commissioned, you would pay around £5000 for this piece, mainly because of the materials and the time it took to create,” said Gary.

New Beginnings is currently on display at the Captain’s Club Hotel & Spa in Christchurch.

 The hotel is a long-term supporter of Macmillan and one of a host of local businesses who have signed up as its Golden Partners during its 50th anniversary year.

Cheryl Davies from the Captain’s Club said: “We are very proud to be able to display New Beginnings here in the hotel.

“It’s stunning and is proving to be a talking point amongst our visitors and guests. I’m sure there is going to be a great deal of interest from people wanting to own something so unique and beautiful.”