Al Phemister
Al works with industrial materials, waste materials and discarded objects to create organic and natural forms. He believes that beauty can be created from whatever we have at hand. Al has always seen waste as an opportunity, rather than rubbish. With a passion for recycling and reuse, Al has always used discarded items to make art. He coaxes the materials into new found forms that create wonder and give new definition to what is rubbish.
Endangered species installation – Birds and Flowers
While researching endangered birds, Al discovered that nearly one in six Australian birds faces extinction due to climate change, fire, habitat loss, and invasive species. This installation features the Regent Honeyeater, Swift Parrot, and Black Cockatoo, critically endangered across southern Queensland and NSW. Al has created 12,000 flowers, grouped in tens, symbolising the global number of threatened bird species. This powerful visual highlights the scale of the crisis. By planting native trees and raising awareness, we can create habitat, spark conversation, and take meaningful steps toward protecting birdlife.
Come and see for yourself at SWELL Sculpture Festival, Pacific Parade, Currumbin 12th – 21st September.