To break my monotonous routine of sleeping-eating-bathing-reading-writing, I recently downloaded an iPad app of ANU’s sculptures–artists, date of acquisition and directions/map to explore more this huge campus. I was surprised to see this map:
From ANU Sculptures app
We have 55 sculptures by artists from all over the world! Thanks to this app I started to become more aware of my surroundings whenever I walk around the campus. I just walked pass through most of them before but knowing now the meanings behind these works of art instilled in me a new sense of appreciation.
Here is the first set of photos I took last weekend. I will post more every week until I cover all the sculptures. It’s like a mini-goal for me and a token of gratitude for this university which gave me the opportunity to advance my studies.
“Spout” (1988) by Mark Grey-Smith, born in Australia
A concrete fountain that mimics a fossilized spout of water with its splash.
“Relaxation” (1953) by Gerard Lewers, born in Australia
A fluid abstract shape of a human using sunset laminated sandstone that looks like it has been naturally carved by wind, water and time.
“Levy” (1981) by Paul Hopmeier, born in Australia
The modernity of this painted steel blends well with the landscape as its soft merging forms frame the sky, trees and ground.
“Guardian Figures” (2003) by Gregory Johns, born in Australia
A pair of protective figures made of steel twirls and spirals depicts the co-existence of spiritual and philosophical ideas.
“Black Sun II” (1976) by Inge King, born in Germany
Similar to a sun’s eclipse, this shows the paradoxes between light and dark, reflection and shadow.
“Withholdind” (1992) by Mark-Grey Smith, born in Australia
A rectangular block holds the mirror-image arches together and at the same time pushes them apart.
“Seated figure” (1982) by Olavi Lanu, born in Finland
This contemplative figure of wire, fiberglass resin, moss and lichens creates the artist’s longing for a mythic environment populated with benign human presences.
“Head of RC Mills” 1973 by May Barrie, born in Denmark
This granite portrait of Prof. Mills is perfect for his legacy in leading the founding and development of ANU. (Note: The bird is a real one and not part of the piece. I didn’t wave it away as it looked so peaceful on top of his head. :)
“Standing Figure” (1981-1982) by Ante Dabro, born in Croatia
This image of a meditative girl is created, not represented, explaining the complexity of the subtle stillness of her expression yet muscular and disciplined stance.
A speaker in one of the seminars I attended told us that our campus is like a “magical kingdom” where the discovery of sculptures, little corners, mysterious doors, a lone bench, etc. never ends. A “muggle” like me can never be grateful enough.
More details about the sculptures here. The descriptions are mostly lifted from the ANU Sculpture Walk Brochure.
I always enjoy posts like these. These artworks in public places are underrated. They are exposed to the elements and (in their little artwork souls) are seen by multitudes who will have varying attitudes towards them, most painful of which, is just passing them by without a glance. They are immortal but ephemeral, if I may be permitted to be cheesy. They are not as easily-readable a mirror into a generation / group / locality as, say, comic books or indie films, but they define a physical setting. Sorry to ramble. I once lived in a university campus throughout three degrees, and now that I no longer wake up to its moss-covered pavements and giant acacia trees, I find that the artworks are some of the things I regret not paying enough attention to when I had the chance.
Well put Iris. I have never looked at it that way but when you compare them to other media, yes they are underrated and often neglected. And also, things that are ephemeral, especially those showing signs of it, make us value them more. If UP Diliman campus is that with moss-covered pavements and giant acacia trees, I share the same feeling of regret then. Thanks for this thoughtful comment. And please don’t apologize, I’d love to hear more from you.
Yep, it was UP Diliman. Sometimes I forget you’re Filipina. My bad. :-)
Haha! No worries. I miss UP.
how nice! it reminds me of the surprises you have when you wander in Central Park, NYC. There’s always some sculpture or work of art hidden somewhere, some day you don’t see it, some day you suddenly see it!
Enjoy your walks around campus!
If I go to NYC (oh when will that be), I will do a similar post. It’s a sunny Sunday here so will go out in a few. :) Enjoy your weekend too, ‘Jul!
and I’ll be reading you!
Cheers!
They’re all beautiful. Can’t find a ‘single’ favorite. This is a wonderful project you’ve created to entertain and educate yourself… and your readers. Thanks!
I’m glad I stumbled upon the app and started this little project. Thanks Maria and keep an eye on the next ones; who knows you might find a favorite from those. :)
No there’s no favorite because they’ll all so wonderful! :-)
I understand it on the first comment but I still believe you will soon find one that stands out among the rest :D Thanks a lot, Maria!
I probably wouldn’t have made it to class if my campus had been decorated so beautifully. I especially like the “Standing Figure” statue.
I won’t be surprised, Britt haha! The “Standing Figure” is also my favorite from this set but watch out for more. Thanks!
What a great idea, on the school’s part, to include so many sculptures and works of art across the campus — I’m sure it really adds a lot to the atmosphere and overall mood of the area. I’m kind jealous — I wish my school had done that!
I wish my former schools had also done this. They really add character and special touch on the surroundings.