Set in bronze | $1.4 million sculpture gifted to the University of Sydney

The University of Sydney has received a generous sculpture gift ‘Individual’s, valued at $1.4 million by internationally acclaimed artist Andrew Rogers

Located today outside the new Faculty of Law building at the University of Sydney’s Camperdown campus, the sculptural installation has been presented by the Australian artist to the University through the Federal Government’s Cultural Gifts Program.

Melbourne-based artist Rogers is recognised internationally with over 300 sculptures found in plazas and buildings around the world.  ‘Individuals’ was first exhibited by Rogers at the gateway to the United Nations in New York City, in Dag Hammarskjold Plaza.

Rogers commented on his work stating, “Individuals’ is a metaphor for the inseparable relationship between singularity and community. We are all individuals possessing the sanctity of a singular life and the ability to express ourselves. At the same time we are part of the society within which we live.”

University of Sydney’s Vice Chancellor, Dr Michael Spence, said: “This is an extraordinary gift to the University. It takes a visionary artist to understand and appreciate the intersection between art and academic endeavour. ‘Individuals’ is doing more than enhancing the beauty of our campus; it acts as a driver of deeper thinking and reflection for our students and staff.”

“With the lack of respect for the sanctity of individual life that we see around the world today, the message of the sculpture is significant and well placed outside the Law Faculty of a leading university.”

‘Individuals’ comprises 15 bronze forms abating in height from 3.5m to 1m. Commenting on their dynamic vivacity, Chris Fox a sculptor and lecturer in Art and Architecture at the University of Sydney, remarked: “The repeated unfurling bronze forms are dynamic and seductive in materiality, and allow for a connection between ground plane and the Law building behind. Temporary and permanent art projects throughout the university are vital in building a connection to site for the students, staff and visitors.”

This significant gift will not go unnoticed, each unique spiralling cast form is different, continuously undulating and changing depending on the viewer’s perspective. Striking, and now permanent, it is a welcome addition to the rich public space of the University of Sydney.

Image courtesy of the artist and the University of Sydney