Narci-Sunnies | 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.

Al is inspired by the natural environment, his wife and his family. His work reflects his love for them and their home. From his workshop in Yass in regional New South Wales, Al creates these decorative forms from everyday and industrial objects. He has a passion for things that have touched and been used by hand. Objects that tell a story, used for a new purpose.

Al is a leading advocate for the arts and leads workshops encouraging others to make art with a mind for good mental health. He has worked with local Schools, art groups, Southern Tablelands arts, Local Councils in NSW, the ACT Government, Belconnen Art Centre and Tuggeranong Art Centre as well as the Australian Conservation Foundation. His Waste to Art projects have a wide appeal and have resulted in Several Award winning Sculptures.

Al is a member of YASSarts, Southern Tablelands Arts, The National Association of Visual Artists (NAVA), The International Sculpture Centre (ISC) and the International Association of Artists (IAA).

“Sunglasses are now more form than function. They are more to do with 'I' than 'eye'. This pair is the ultimate 'selfie', allowing the wearer to constantly monitor his own image. As those around him think he is looking out, he is really looking in - not in genuine introspection but in false admiration or harsh condemnation of his reflection. In this world of increasing surveillance we are all watched by unknown individuals and organisations, Aggressive border protection policies make us fearful of difference, and populist politicians say they will keep us safe by restricting our freedoms. Perhaps this is why we are drawn to the familiar and what we can control - our own image and how others perceive that image. These sunnies say 'look at me' while allowing the wearer to do just that. Narcissism or refuge?”

Al Phemister, 2025

Due to the size of this work, postage is not available. Please contact the gallery for delivery options.