For Gemma Rees, the most compelling sculptures are those that capture the soul of an animal rather than its exact likeness. Known for her richly textured and characterful works, the British sculptor brings a unique illustrative sensibility to the world of wildlife sculpture. As we introduce Gemma to Mountain Galleries collectors, she shares the inspiration behind her beloved animal subjects and the process of transforming sketches into three-dimensional personalities.

How did you first start sculpting dogs, and what drew you to them as subjects?

I spent a long time working as a 2D designer for stationery brands, but I eventually felt a real pull toward sculpture and working in 3D. Dogs were just a natural choice for me to start with. They have so much expression and such a readable, warm way about them. Because my background is in illustration, I wasn't trying to make them anatomically perfect; I just wanted to capture that lovable, storybook personality that every dog has.

Your sculptures capture so much personality. What are you looking for when you're creating a dog sculpture?

I’m always trying to find the 'soul' or the specific character of the animal rather than focusing on realism. It usually comes down to the tiny details—a certain tilt of the head, an alert look in the eyes, or the way they sit. I like my pieces to have a bit of a cinematic feel, looking as though they’ve just paused for a second and are about to spring right back into action.

Do you have a favourite breed to sculpt, or does each dog bring something different to the process?

Every dog has its own unique energy, but I do have a soft spot for the scruffier breeds! I have a particular fondness for lurchers, and my own dog, a Bedlington whippet named Arlo, has actually been a huge inspiration in my work. Breeds with wild, messy coats are just incredibly fun to work on because they let me play around with that scruffy, highly textured look that has become a big part of my style.

What do you think it is about dog sculptures that resonates so strongly with collectors and animal lovers?

Dogs are such a massive part of our lives and truly become members of our family. Anyone who loves animals knows they have their own distinct little spirits. I think collectors really connect with the warmth and personality in the eyes of the sculptures. It gives people a way to keep a piece of their dog in their house, keeping that memory alive even after they’ve lost them.

For someone discovering your work for the first time, what would you like them to feel when they see one of your sculptures?

I just hope it brings a smile to their face and makes them feel a bit curious. Whether they are looking at my dogs or my new mountain collection of bears, foxes, and hares, I want them to feel an immediate connection. I love the idea of someone looking into the animal's eyes and feeling like they are meeting a real character with its own story.