CHOCOLYN local Phil Russell has had a rather unique hand in the success of the Elvis: Direct from Graceland exhibition in Bendigo.

Mr Russell, who owns Custom Mannequin Solutions, was contracted to supply about 45 mannequins to showcase Elvis’ costumes in the exhibition.

He said he fell into the industry about 30 years ago after seeing an advertisement in The Age for a business for sale suiting a handyman.

The rest, as they say, is history.

Over the years Mr Russell has expanded his repertoire from custom mannequins and repair works to fibreglass pieces, spray painting and recently investing in a 3D printer thanks to a business grant from the Corangamite Shire.

As well as stocking clothing department stores across Australia, he has also provided mannequins for fashion shows and exhibitions like Elvis: Direct from Graceland.

Mr Russell said the Elvis exhibition took about 12 months of preparation.

“The mannequins for the show were 100 per cent recyclable and sustainably made and  were manufactured in Lithuania,” he said.

“When they approached about the Elvis exhibition, the idea was to do a custom Elvis head and I started dabbling with some 3D printing.

“In the end, they decided to go without heads for the mannequins.”

MR Russell said he was pleased with how the mannequins turned out for the exhibition.

“I’m pretty chuffed about it. It’s been massive,” he said.

“They’ve (Bendigo Art Gallery) been very supportive of me for a number of years.

“It’s pretty cool to be involved in such a significant exhibition.”

Mr Russell returned to the area about 10 years ago and is enjoying the work-life balance.

“It can be challenging to operate from here, but I’m getting by,” he said.

“It’s finding a balance.

“The real advantage of the industry is it’s physical, mental and creatively stimulating.”

Mr Russell said he enjoyed working with a variety of people over the years and looks forward to extending the business.

“I’ve got some fantastic people I work with,” he said.

“My freight company for one, they are terrific.”

Elvis: Direct from Graceland finishes on Sunday and is completely sold out.

Article supplied by wdnews.com.au