World famous sculptors and conservation warriors, Gillie and Marc, visited Port Stephens on September 13 for the grand reveal of their whimsical bronze sculptures to be displayed at Soldiers Point Marina.
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The New York artists were welcomed by students from Port Stephens Council representatives, Soldiers Point Marina and Irrawang High School, who were thrilled to have the opportunity to meet the couple made famous for their work, 'Dogman and Rabbit Girl'.
Gillie and Marc were awestruck by the spectacular marine park setting and the marina's commitment to preserving the delicate balance of the oceans - as well as projects such as Real Futures Foundation, which supports the positive future growth of school children.
"Everything that Gillie and Marc represent is wonderfully aligned with the ethos of Soldiers Point Marina," said Carmen Holden, the marina's guest services manager.
"We were very excited to be adding another of their unique and deeply moving creations to our sculpture walk and thrilled that they can be here to share some insights to their awesome work with our community."
The 'Dogman and Rabbit Girl' sculpture tells an uncommon love story and the autobiographical tale of two opposites coming together to become best friends and soulmates.
"We can all be very different but still love each other for who we are as individuals," Gillie said. Marc added: "We love Vespas. They give us an excuse to hold on tight to one another as we travel through life together."
This creative couple dream big and create art from the heart as a medium for social change. Their quirky works have redefined what public art should be all about - spreading captivating messages of love, equality and conservation around the world.
Embraced by critics and communities everywhere, their highly coveted sculptures and paintings can be seen art galleries and public sites in over 250 cities. Among the many accolades bestowed upon their art, Gillie and Marc have won the People's Choice Award in Sydney's Sculpture by the Sea, two years in a row.
Both passionate eco-warriors, Gillie and Marc believe that art is a powerful platform for change! Gillie grew up in Zambia where sketching wildlife shaped her love of the natural world. When she witnessed the shooting of a wild elephant, she committed her life and work to protecting the world's creatures.
For Marc, experiencing the work of Jane Goodall in Tanzania impressed upon him the connectivity of all life and the profound importance of protecting the delicate balance of nature. Through their art, they aspire to mobilising passive audiences, wherever they are, into passionate advocates for conservation.
People respond deeply to each piece; created with love and reflecting the passion inside the artists.
Bronze is their favoured medium because it is non-polluting and a highly sustainable material. It's an alloy, made primarily from two chemical elements found naturally in the environment and it's easy to clean. They have mastered colouring bronze which is a difficult technique not attempted by many.
The Irrawang students were grateful for the once in a lifetime experience.
