British artist James Doran-Webb turns salvaged wood into something magical. Using driftwood collected from the coasts, he creates lifelike wildlife art that feels like it could leap, run, or fly at any moment. Horses mid-gallop, eagles in flight—his driftwood sculptures are full of motion and soul, built entirely from reclaimed wood.
But these aren’t fragile pieces meant to stay indoors. James designs his work to live outdoors—on mountaintops, in open gardens, and out in nature where they belong. Each sculpture is reinforced with internal structures and careful engineering, making them strong enough to weather the seasons for years.
James grew up between Europe and the US, honing his craft early by restoring antique furniture. But it wasn’t until the early 2000s, while living in the Philippines, that he found his true calling in driftwood. Inspired by the natural landscape and skilled local artisans, he began transforming forgotten wood into stunning tributes to the animal kingdom.
More than just an artist, James is also deeply committed to sustainability. Through his “80,000 Trees” project, a seedling is planted for every kilo of wood he uses—turning each sculpture into a step toward a greener future.
This July, fans of his work can see it in person at The Game Fair at Ragley Hall, where his sculptures will be on display. Whether you’re drawn to the craftsmanship, the eco-conscious message, or the wild beauty of the animals themselves, James Doran-Webb’s driftwood sculptures are truly something special.
Check out his website for more or learn about the upcoming exhibition.
