Iranian metal artist Ali Mutii fashions recycled sculpture of Van Lake's pearl mullet

Ali Mutii, an Iranian‑born metal artist living in Van, Turkey, spent three months converting scrap metal from local junkyards into a 3.3‑metre sculpture of the endemic pearl mullet (inc i kefal) that symbolizes Lake Van. The work, made entirely from recyclable metal, was crafted in Mutii’s iron workshop where he also supports his family. The artist, who previously produced a 2‑metre Van cat and a 5‑metre lake‑monster figure for municipal commissions, emphasizes that each piece is a unique, one‑off creation. Mutii receives orders from municipalities across Turkey, including Ankara and Istanbul, and aims to promote recycling while highlighting regional natural heritage through his metal art.

The sculpture has been installed in the city as a new cultural landmark, drawing attention to both local biodiversity and sustainable artistic practices.