Anna-Wili Highfield (b. 1980) is an Australian artist living and working on Gadigal Land/
Sydney. Her sculptures explore the tension between materiality and the vitality of their
human and animal subjects. Working primarily in paper, brass, bronze and steel, and
without preliminary sketches, Highfield describes her sculptures as “drawings in space.”
Combining gesture and matter, her works capture movement, energy and physical
presence, emphasising both the distinctions and unexpected continuities between
human and animal forms. Through her ever-present hand, Highfield's sculptures evoke
states of vulnerability, resilience and consciousness, inviting reflection on our relationship
to the more-than-human world. For over two decades, Highfield has worked
predominantly through commissioned projects for private clients, commercial
collaborations, and institutional exhibitions. Her sculptures are held in public and private
collections throughout Australia and internationally.
Key exhibitions:
Mating Dance, Bondi Pavilion, 2025; Mudgee Arts Precinct, 2022; Glasshouse Regional Gallery, Port Macquarie, 2021.
Twitcher (group show), Maitland Regional Gallery, 2025.
Great Busts Sydney Conservatorium of Music, 2022.
Sydney Contemporary, Olsen stand, 2022.
Companions, Olsen Gallery, Sydney, 2019.
Spirit Faces, Olsen Gruin Gallery, NYC, 2018.
Animals, Carriageworks, Sydney, 2015.
Highfield has collaborated with Hermès and Tiffany & Co.
Texts
Photo: Hugh Hamilton.