Following a distinguished international career in science, research and manufacturing, Paul Cacioli has forged a remarkable second career as a blacksmith and sculptor, bringing the same precision, curiosity and innovation that defined his scientific career to the art of working with steel.
Paul holds a Ph.D. in Synthetic Organic Chemistry and has worked across research, advanced manufacturing and biotechnology for more than four decades. His career included research appointments at the University of Wisconsin, La Trobe University and CSIRO before spending almost 20 years with Ansell, where he rose to Senior Vice President of Science and Technology and Regulatory Affairs. Leading global research and development teams across Malaysia, Sri Lanka, the United States and Australia, Paul played a significant role in the development of medical technologies and advanced materials. Following senior roles with Textor and biotechnology company Polynovo, where he helped establish manufacturing for innovative bioresorbable tissue scaffold technology, he retired to pursue his passion for blacksmithing.
Introduced to blacksmithing more than 18 years ago through a beginner’s course with master blacksmith Oskar Huecherig at Mont De Lancey Homestead, Paul quickly developed a deep appreciation for the traditional craft. Today, his work combines time-honoured forging techniques with contemporary sculptural expression, transforming solid steel into elegant, organic forms that reflect both strength and refinement.
Paul is a long-standing member of the Wandin Blacksmiths at Mont De Lancey, where he has taught introductory blacksmithing for more than a decade. He is also a member of the Association of Sculptors of Victoria, the Victorian Artists Society and the Contemporary Artists Society. As the Association of Sculptors of Victoria’s coordinator for the sculpture exhibition at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show for more than six years, and curator of the annual Art on the Hill exhibition at Mont De Lancey Homestead, Paul continues to make a significant contribution to Victoria’s arts community.
His award-winning work is recognised for its exceptional craftsmanship, technical mastery and ability to reveal the beauty and expressive potential of forged steel.