Paolo Vairo has been a full-time architectural metal fabricator for five years.
His most recent installation, a geodesic grotto of the Virgin Mary out the front of St Anthony of Padua Catholic Parish in Melton South, is his best work yet.
“It has to be number one because it’s the most different looking and cool structure I’ve ever built,” he said.
“I’m pretty lucky – they say when you do something you love you never work a day in your life.”
Mr Vairo said the design is completely unique, at least as far as he is concerned.
“I think it’s the only one like it in the world,” he said.
The grotto was revealed on Saturday, June 22 and was blessed by the Archbishop of Melbourne Peter Andrew Comensoli.
The 500-seat church was at full capacity for the special mass.
The structure features a lighting feature so it looks like a glowing cave – something patrons got to see for themselves at the unveiling.
It is built out of aluminium and was designed with longevity in mind.
“This is a monument to God so it definitely needs to stand the test of time,” Mr Vairo said.
“It’s going to outlive us – that was one of my considerations.”
Eddie Russell
