Onyx Metal Art has a story that began on the other side of the world, bringing together two things I've always been passionate about: metalwork and animals.

After more than 20 years working in engineering and metal fabrication, I established Innovative Change; my own laser-cutting business in Australia. Following the devastating bushfires of 2019–2020, tighter fire restrictions inspired me to design a safer alternative to traditional ground fires.

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I developed a range of portable, flat-pack steel fire pits that raised the fire approximately six inches above the ground. They were designed to be practical, easy to transport and a safer way for people to enjoy an outdoor fire.

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Problem solved... until COVID-19 brought along with it new problems!... 

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As fear and misinformation spread about whether people could catch COVID from their pets, animals in my hometown were being abandoned and surrendered at an alarming rate. I couldn't simply stand by and watch, so, self funded by Innovative Change, I established ONYX Cat Rescue.

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Over the following year, Onyx helped save more than 50 cats, a few dogs and a rogue turtle named Leonardo. I even converted half of my machinery shed into a dedicated cat sanctuary, providing a safe place for animals who might otherwise have faced euthanasia due to the overloading of our local veterinary clinic.

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It was one of the most challenging yet rewarding things I've ever done.

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After the pandemic, I returned home to the UK. Once I'd settled back into life in Yorkshire, I began thinking about bringing those two chapters of my life together.

And that's how Onyx Metal Art was born.

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Today, I combine my metal design with my love of animals, creating distinctive steel fire pits, personalised pet signs and memorials. Every product starts with an original design and is precision laser-cut, bringing together the craftsmanship of metalwork and the personal meaning behind each piece.

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Two passions. One business. Metalwork with meaning.