Fiona Garlick
b. 1968
Resides Arrowtown
Working predominantly in bronze, Fiona Garlick's sculptural practice explores the intersection of ecology, colonial history and the complex relationship between humans and the natural world. Using the symbolic language of birds and botanical forms her works balance humour with poignancy, exploring extinction, adaptation, and environmental fragility. Birds perch on oversized acorns and pinecones; feathers become relics; familiar forms take on the weight of story and symbolism.
Following a voyage to Antarctica and New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands with Heritage Expeditions in 2025, Garlick turned her attention to the remarkable birdlife of these remote islands. Created for SOUTHWARD, Toroa celebrates the Antipodean albatross, while A Duck, Two Petrels and a Plover… commemorates the four bird species that became extinct on the Auckland Islands following human arrival.
Born in Coventry, England, Fiona gained a Foundation Diploma at Camberwell College of Arts (UK) in 2004; studied sculpture at Falmouth College of Arts (UK) in 2005; and gained a Bachelor of Fine Arts (First Class Honours) at Elam School of Fine Arts in 2008. She has had work selected for many of Aotearoa’s leading sculpture exhibitions, such as Brick Bay Sculpture Trail, Stoneleigh Sculpture in the Gardens, and Tai Tapu Sculpture Garden; exhibits regularly with MANZ (Medal Art New Zealand); is represented by Artis Gallery in Auckland; and has works in a number of public and private collections throughout New Zealand.