Iranian artistcreates giant scrap metal pearl mullet sculpture

Iranian sculptor Ali Mutii, living in Van, created a 3.3-meter-tall sculpture of the 'pearl mullet' fish using 350 kilograms of scrap metal collected from junkyards. Mutii, 56, moved to Turkey in 2016 and has been living in Van, continuing his sculpting work in his metal workshop in the Marangozlar Site in Tuşba district. Known for supporting the Zero Waste Project, Mutii has previously created sculptures such as the Van Cat and the Van Lake Monster. Three months ago, he decided to sculpt the pearl mullet, a fish living in Lake Van. Using sheets of metal from scrap, 3,000 scales made from construction iron, and parts from car engines, Mutii welded the materials over 2.5 months to complete the 3.3-meter sculpture. He will display his work at an exhibition at the Atatürk Art Gallery in İpekyolu district. Mutii earns his living by selling products made from scrap materials and aims to contribute to promoting the city through his artworks. He stated: 'The pearl mullet is one of the most important values of this city. I hope this work will be placed in a spot frequently visited by tourists or by Lake Van, as it will add value to both the city and my art. I worked very hard for about 2.5 months to complete this. I used around 350 kilograms of metal sheets, construction iron, and car parts, and created 3,000 scales from metal sheets to give the surface a fish-like texture. People really like it and give very positive reactions.' Local shopkeeper Şahabettin Faran added: 'Mutii is a true artist who deserves support. He brings life to scrap metal pieces collected from junkyards. People passing by his workshop stop, watch his work, and ask questions. His creations truly add value to the city.'