Abstract:
Vollis Simpson of Wilson began molding metal into artwork when most people were thinking of retirement. He calls his creations whirligigs. They are made from scrap metal, nuts, bolts, fans, and whatever else is available, and Simpson assembles them into giant, wind powered sculptures of machinery that spin and whirl. His machines have stood on his property for years but now are under restoration for placement in a park in Wilson. In 2011, he was a recipient of the North Carolina Award, the highest civilian honor given to a North Carolina resident or native.