Renowned contemporary artist Xia Hang who has been commissioned to create a major new public art work for Sydney by TWT Property Group, arrived in Sydney last week with a maquette (model) of his Memory Tree artwork. The model is 2.0m high by 1.5m wide and will assist in demonstrating the construction and formation principle of Memory Tree.
Xia Hang’s sculptures use a complex variety of mechanical elements and through this model he is able to discuss and detail the technical complexity of the splicing and installation of his sculpture. His works are first designed in a virtual computer environment before it can be transformed into reality, assembled, cut, and secured. The estimated number of parts for Memory Tree is expected to be around 5,000-6,000.
The Memory Tree commission will see the creation of an almost six-metre-high ‘tree’ out of intricate metal-work and kinetic-lighting within a new laneway in Sydney’s Ultimo, as part of the Architectus designed NewLife Darling Harbour development at 495 Harris Street. The new laneway and public space will link Harris Street to the east, Kirk Lane to the north and Bulwara Road to the west.
Xia Hang’s sculptures are meticulously structured and integrate nature and machinery. Memory Tree will bring unparalleled beauty to NewLife Darling Harbour and will complement the construction materials and design style of the development project.
Xia Hang’s Memory Tree is scheduled to be unveiled to the public in 2019.
While in Sydney, Xia Hang also visited the TWT Creative Precinct in St Leonards, which is home to more than 70 artists and creative businesses from the visual, performing, music and film disciplines.
Xia Hang met with leading contemporary visual Artist Caroline Rothwell; Photographer and Contact Sheet Gallery owner Paul McDonald; Artist James Cooper; and Jen Lo, Owner of Cakedown Bakery. Xia Hang said that he was honored to be able to participate in the tour of the TWT Creative Precinct and was deeply impressed by the diverse mix of creative businesses and artists located within the precinct.
