GEORGIA FURNISS

Wild Lyf
My work is a tribute to the unsung heroes behind Australia’s wildlife conservation efforts. Through my art, I aim to shed light on the compassionate individuals who dedicate their time, resources, and energy to rescuing and rehabilitating the country’s most vulnerable animals. Whether they are volunteers, wildlife carers, or hospital staff, these heroes often work in the shadows, dealing with the emotional and financial weight of caring for sick, injured, and orphaned creatures.

I am inspired by the profound impact these individuals have on the survival of Australia’s unique wildlife, and the sacrifices they make to give these animals a fighting chance. From the heartbreaking costs—averaging $7,000 to save a single koala—to the emotional toll of loss and tragedy, their work is nothing short of heroic. Without them, the future of these beloved creatures would be uncertain.

Through my art, I seek to raise awareness of both the beauty of Australia’s wildlife and the critical role these heroes play in preserving it. By honoring their efforts, I hope to foster a greater appreciation for the care and dedication that goes into saving our natural world.

What sparked the idea for the work you are exhibiting at SWELL this year?

For the past couple of years, I’ve had the privilege of fostering orphaned possum joeys.
Being part of a community that dedicates time, energy, and love to keeping these fragile little animals alive has been incredibly inspiring. This journey has shown me just how much impact small acts of care can have—and it’s motivated me to shine a light not only on the tireless work of wildlife carers but also on what we, as fellow inhabitants of this planet, can do to help protect and preserve the natural world we share.

What’s something people might not realise about the process behind your work?

Each of my animal sculptures takes approximately 40 hours to sculpt, with an additional 10+ hours spent on mould-making and casting.
I pour my time and heart into every piece because I’m deeply passionate about capturing both the anatomy and the unique personality of each animal. Through my work, I hope to offer people a connection to wildlife they may never have the chance to experience up close in real life—an invitation to appreciate the beauty, complexity, and individuality of these incredible creatures.

What role does location or environment play in your sculptures?

A lot! Being so close to Currumbin Wildlife Hospital—the main wildlife hospital between here and Australia Zoo—makes this the perfect place to exhibit my work. The location reflects the heart of what my sculptures represent: a deep connection to Australian wildlife, conservation, and the incredible efforts of those working to protect these animals every day.

Is there a moment or memory that shaped you as an artist?

Holding my first possum joey and watching them play and interact with each other was a moment that changed everything for me. It felt like an out-of-body experience—witnessing something so intimate and special that very few people ever get to see in their lifetime.
People often see possums as pests, but when you’re up close, looking into their tiny faces as they rely on you for survival, you see their personalities, their innocence, and their will to live. It’s an experience I’ll never forget—and one I try to capture in my art. More than anything, I want others to feel even a glimpse of that connection through my work.

What keeps you coming back to sculpture as a form of expression?

There’s something deeply satisfying about getting your hands dirty and bringing a whole being to life from a block of wax or even a tree stump that’s been rotting in the ground for years. It’s a raw, hands-on process that feels grounding and powerful. I guess I’m also just the right amount of crazy to keep coming back to it—it challenges me, frustrates me, and inspires me all at once.

If you could install your work anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I would love to have my work permanently on display at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. It feels like the perfect place—surrounded by the very animals that inspire my art. More than just an exhibition, I’d want it to serve as an educational experience, giving people a deeper understanding of the wildlife they’re supporting simply by visiting. It’s about creating connection, raising awareness, and offering people a chance to see these animals in a new, more personal light.

Instagram  @georgiafurniss