Who started Metalbird? Who's Phil?Updated 4 hours ago

Metalbird was started by Phil Walters, an industrial designer from Auckland, New Zealand, in 2009. Bored with corporate life and inspired by his late wife’s artistic energy, Phil began creating life-sized steel bird silhouettes and installing them around his neighbourhood as a form of guerrilla street art.

What began as a one-man art experiment quickly evolved into a meaningful global brand. After Phil’s wife passed in 2012, the project took on a deeper purpose. He quietly installed birds in places that held family memories—a heartfelt tribute that resonated with people around the world. Today, Metalbird is more than art—it's a global memorial movement and a gift brand with soul, helping people honour loved ones, mark milestones, and bring beauty to everyday spaces.

Phil is still the creative force behind the brand—cheeky, humble, and deeply human. As he says:

“We realised one day that maybe we weren’t just selling birds. Maybe we were connecting the world through a giant, accidental art project.”

Fun Fact:
Metalbird is proudly made locally in each country we operate—whether it’s the USA, UK, Australia, or New Zealand. That means faster delivery, local craftsmanship, and less carbon footprint.