The finishing touches are being put on the new Australian National University (ANU) science precinct with the installation of UNA, a sculpture by renowned international artist Wolfgang Buttress.
The highly polished four metre diameter stainless steel sphere features 9,000 laser and hand cut perforations which represent the stars visible to the naked eye in the Southern Hemisphere which are laser cut according to their luminosity. The stars were mapped in collaboration with eminent Research School of Astronomy & Astrophysics astronomer, Dr Daniel Bayliss.
The magic of the sculpture is revealed once you look inside. Peering through the perforation of a single ‘star” the viewer is suddenly captivated by a field of cosmic vision. The highly polished inner sphere reflects tiny rays of light filtering through the outer ball. Bouncing off the polished inner surfaces, the effect, at different times of the day, reveals a beautiful and entirely different universe.
This artwork concept is based on the relationship between micro and macro, the atom and the universe. Buttress describes the work as “evoke[ing] universal structures. The symmetry of the human body is present throughout the natural world – evident in cell formation, nautilus shells, diatoms and the stars themselves. By associating us with these phenomena, Buttress seeks to re-establish a more empathetic and harmonious relationship with the universe by means of poetic place-makers which engender a feeling of centeredness. Emphasising connections between the micro and macro, UNA can be seen as a portal of reflection that suggests a sense of wonder, elation and sublimity.”
The two-tonne structure sits in the courtyard between the Linnaeus and College of Science Teaching Buildings on Linnaeus way.
On Thursday 9 May 2013, Buttress will open an exhibition of his paintings and sculptures at ANU’s Drill Hall Gallery. A time lapse video showing the installation of Rise, Buttress’ 40m high sculpture in Belfast, which will also be shown as part of the exhibition. As part of Canberra’s centenary celebrations Buttress has also been invited to speak at Sculpture, Space and Place at the National Gallery of Australia forum on 11 May 2013.