Scrap metal art for elephants

Industrial scrap metal is often treated as junk, yet it’s a valuable resource that can be recycled and turned into artworks. To give the metal a second life, businesses are working with both artists and conservationists to run a fundraising campaign.

The aim is to transform the unwanted material into creative pieces of art that are not just visually appealing but also functional.

Proceeds, after deducting expenses, will be donated to foundations and rescue centers that work to promote elephant conservation and support the welfare of these vulnerable animals.

Committed to protecting elephants

Thai Koon Steel Group has teamed up with Saruta “Pin” Kiatparkpoom, an artist and designer of Pin Metal Art to upcycle the scrap metal left over from the group’s manufacturing process into stunning artworks that will raise money to support elephant conservation efforts in Thailand, a home to Asian elephants, a species that has been facing threats, putting their survival at risk.

Experts estimate that there are now only about 3,500 elephants living in Thailand. Their population has been decimated in recent years due to habitat loss, deforestation and exploitation.

Among these creations is the ‘Elephant Hope’ lamp. Hand-welded from scrap steel, the artwork was recently launched at Style Bangkok Fair 2025, held from April 2-6, at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. Limited to just 133 pieces, they are available for purchase now.

Funds raised will go to projects committed to conserving elephants in Thailand. The ‘Elephant Hope’ lamp is part of ‘Thai Koon for Thai Elephant’ project which was initiated in 2009 to help protect elephants in Thailand and raise awareness of the importance of elephant conservation, while promoting eco-tourism practices.

“Elephants are important to the environment. The giant creatures help maintain the natural balance of the ecosystem. They are also Thailand’s national treasure. We need to protect them,” said Thai Koon Steel Group’s CEO Sanguan Sakunworaratana.

He also shared his personal experiences that inspired him to embark upon this project.

“About 15 years ago, my elder sister rescued an elephant who had been used for work. Her front left foot was injured when she stepped on a landmine. We named her “Thai Koon” after our company and funded her rescue,” he said.

Since then, the group has sponsored projects under the Elephant Nature Park, a sanctuary and rescue center for elephants in Chiang Mai’s Mae Taeng District that have been physically abused and mistreated “We hope that our project will inspire other businesses and people to do the same,” Sanguan said.

From scrap to art

The ‘Elephant Hope’ lamp was created by recycling artist Saruta and produced by a production team who work for Thai Koon Steel Group. The creation’s design evokes an elephant’s face and textured skin, reflecting resilience and hidden beauty.

“We joined small pieces of scrap metal to create a lamp and then made it in the shape of the elephant’s face. We welded them by hand,” she said.

Using small pieces of scrap metal to create a lamp that is both functional and aesthetically appealing is one of the project’s challenges, Saruta noted.

“The team often works on large-scale projects. They had to adapt to crafting decorative arts,” she said.

She added that the lamp project gave her the unique opportunity to work with the team and help them improve their skills and craftmanship.

“It was a pleasure working with like-minded people, that is those who care for the environment and the animal welfare. And what is so special is that we are not only creating a lamp but also improving the well-being of animals and making the world a better place,” Saruta said.

She also shared one special childhood memory with elephants. She once spent many days at the Thai Elephant Conservation Center in Lampang province, which allowed her to get up close to elephants, care for them and learn about them, thus creating a personal bond with these massive animals.

“I remember I drew pictures on paper made from elephant’s dung. Spending time with them, you discover that elephants have souls just like we do,” she said.

Saruta, whose father owns a steel factory, is passionate about recycling and sustainability. Since her university days, she has combined creativity and craftmanship with modern designs to create her unique scrap metal art.

She has turned salvaged mechanical and industrial parts from her father’s factory into valuable artworks, which she explains helps reduce the need for new raw materials, thus conserving natural resources. Her philosophy towards work is based on “New Life for Waste” that aims to repurpose leftover industrial materials into functional and aesthetically pleasing art and décor.

“People often see the scrap metal as waste. My goal is to bring it back to life by upcycling it into artistic masterpieces,” the scrap metal artist said.

Saruta, who has 12 years of experience under her belt, has created a wide range of creations including art installations, objects and home décor items.

Her designs are intricate and detailed with the texture of various metal elements reminiscent of woven silk, making her stand out among the crowd. Among her masterpieces is the lotus chandelier at the Golden Mount Temple in Bangkok.

Alongkot Chukaew, director of the Environmental and Social Foundation, is pleased that businesses and artists care about environmental sustainability.

“It’s good to learn that they work to protect the environment. We hope that they will continue these activities in the future. There is a lot more to do to make sustainability a reality,” he said.