Animal sculptures aim to inspire action for wildlife conservation
Published Nov 2024 by Kingston Courier
Five pieces by artists Gillie and Marc have gone on display in Kingston
A new series of animal sculptures have been unveiled in Kingston town earlier this month.
The five pieces, called “A Wild Life for Wildlife”, were created by Gillie and Marc, a British-Australian husband and wife team of sculptors. The artists aim to spotlight endangered animal species through their art.
The exhibition, which will continue until November 2025, features five sculptures, representing animals with human-like bodies and postures.
“A Wild Life for Wildlife” (Credit: Francesca Rapisarda)
The artists said that they are excited to return to Kingston with a new project after their last exhibition, “Chimps are Family”.
“This upcoming exhibition is one of our most exciting yet, featuring some of our most interactive pieces, including our iconic Dogman and Rabbitwoman, alongside sculptures of the world’s most endangered species,” the artists said, in a press statement about the exhibition.
Their main aim is to bring “awareness to wildlife conservation in a way that connects and inspires people of all ages.”
“A Wild Life for Wildlife” (Credit: Francesca Rapisarda)
Locals were captivated by the sculptures.
“It’s a very good idea to raise awareness, I just ask that they put up a sign so that people are aware of the reasoning behind the beautiful gesture,” said Tyler Adams from Tolworth, who saw the sculptures on Clarence Street.
QR codes are visible alongside the sculptures, where visitors can read about the lives of the animals, what they need, and their imminent threats.
“They do draw attention too. I have stopped a few times to read the details and to look at them,” said Kingston local Mari Lucaccini.
According to the WWF 2024 Living Planet Report, the size of the wildlife population has fallen by 73% since 1970. Over 41,000 species are at risk of extinction due to human activities, with Javan Rhinos being the top one, followed by the Amur Leopard and Sunda Island Tiger.
Gillie and Marc’s animal sculptures have been exhibited in New York, Sydney, Paris, Shanghai, San Francisco, Belgium, and London.
“A Wild Life for Wildlife” (Credit: Francesca Rapisarda)
While Kingston is not technically in Surrey, it is easy enough to get to. As it is just over the border, it is a quick drive from nearby Esher, Epsom or Weybridge. While Locations like Guildford and Woking are further way, Kingston is still accessible by car or train.
“A Wild Life for Wildlife” (Credit: Francesca Rapisarda)
Gillie and Marc, award-winning artists of the ‘Wild Kingston’ sculptures said: “We are absolutely thrilled to be returning to Kingston upon Thames with our new collection of sculptures, following the incredible success of our ‘Chimps are Family’ exhibition. This upcoming exhibition is one of our most exciting yet, featuring some of our most interactive pieces, including our iconic Dogman and Rabbitwoman, alongside sculptures of the world’s most endangered species. Kingston has a special place in our hearts, and we can’t wait to share this collection with the community, bringing awareness to wildlife conservation in a way that connects and inspires people of all ages.”
