Major U.S. gift for sculpture
7 October 2006
Last week we were given a presentation on the design of a new site-specific sculpture to be constructed in front of the Art Gallery next February.
More of the details relating to the sculptor and his work will be announced nearer to the time of construction. He is, however, a man with an international reputation who has produced some unique and innovative works, for example for Melbourne’s Federation Square.
The previously bare area outside the Gallery will be transformed by both the sculpture and the landscaping that will also take place, associated with the completion of the new ‘C’ Block building by Lindsay and Kerry Clare.
The $55,000 sculpture has been commissioned as a result of a generous gift from a U.S. Foundation – our first gift from an overseas donor. It was made possible by Arija Austin, who has for some time been helping the University attract funds for arts projects in particular. We are deeply grateful to her, and to Professor Andrew Hede who had carriage of many of the detailed arrangements.
Within the University’s Master Plan review process which is nearing completion, the landscaping plans in the University hub have been fast-tracked, and the result will be an even more attractive core for the campus over the next three or four months.
Almost before the next major building is completed in November, work will start on the new Sports Stadium, and last week we placed further submissions with the Commonwealth for more capital works monies.
In 2007 there will be more buildings, more courses, more staff, more students - more evidence of the success, growth and attractiveness of USC.
Professor Paul Thomas is Vice-Chancellor of University of the Sunshine Coast