While Newenham’s commissioned sculptor at the Adelaide Hills International Sculpture Symposium (AHISS), Liu Yang, is undoubtedly making a name for himself on the international sculptor stage, it could all have been so different but for his bold decision to change course and follow his heart.
The decision has been a good one for Liu, who is fast developing a reputation for his interpretive works in public art. And, we’re delighted to say, for Newenham, its future residents and the public at large.
The young Liu, who hails from China’s north, holds degrees in food science and economic management and initially followed a career in the media, working in newspapers and television. But his first love, sculpting, kept gnawing away until finally he did what his heart desired and pursued a career as a sculptor.
With his emphasis on public art as a vital form of communication and societal wellbeing, he has gained an enviable reputation as a leader in his field. Many of his works are highlighted by contrasts, exploring the relationship between materials such as soft rope and hard stone and underlining the interaction between colour and geometric forms.
Liu’s sculpture will be crafted specifically for the Newenham setting, blending in with the development’s theme of delivering urban tranquillity and modern Australian living in a beautiful, timeless setting where people and their health, happiness and wellbeing are paramount.
He is joined by eight other local and international sculptors currently working on the final stone creations at the third and final chapter of the biennial AHISS at The Cedars in Hahndorf from April 4 to 25 April that will leave the Adelaide Hills and Fleurieu Peninsula with 24 works of art across the Hills Sculpture Trail that runs from Mount Torrens to Milang.
A 25th ‘Thank You’ piece carving by Korean sculptor Sodong Choe and commissioned by the AHISS will be displayed at The Cedars in recognition of the Heysen family’s enormous contribution and the venue for hosting the events.
The other sculptors, chosen by AHISS Artistic Director Silvio Apponyi from dozens of expressions of interest received, are Australian Marijan Bekic, Bulgarian Gheorghi Filin, Englishman Simon Thomas, Hollander Karin Van Ommeren, Italian Francesco Panceri and New Zealanders Renate Verbrugge and Anna Korver.
We encourage you to visit The Cedars to say hello to Liu and the other artists and watch them at work. The Symposium is open to the public every day between 10am and 4pm (except Monday April 25).
For more information please visit www.adelaidehillssculpture.com.au
Image: Liu Yang with Yali Fan from Sexton Glover Watts
