State / Location: ACT
We are delighted to announce that the Iskia ‘Field of Light’ installation by Matthew Curtis has been nominated as a finalist in the Property Council Australia ACT Innovation & Excellence Awards – Public Art Project category.
The vision behind “Field of Lights” at Iskia Apartments encompasses a multifaceted approach, intertwining elements of tribute, innovation, and community engagement. Inspired by the historical presence of the Returned and Services League (RSL) at the site, the project seeks to honour the sacrifices and contributions of veterans while also embracing modern technology to create an immersive and memorable experience.
It is in essence an exploration of life and loss, and the act of remembrance; but also, of looking forward, outward, through those experiences, those tragedies, while not making them a static foundation for the future, to blind all our perspective, but simply to influence and encourage us to move forward. To remember the micro – observe the history, and let it influence the macro – the future, in all its limitless, undefined glory.
The story behind this artwork is one of continuity and renewal. As the RSL headquarters transitioned to the new building on the same site, “Field of Lights” emerged as a beacon of remembrance, ensuring that the site’s rich heritage would not be forgotten. Through its innovative design and commitment to sustainability, the project celebrates the past while embracing the future, serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of service and sacrifice.
It is a seamless integration of art and technology, symbolising the intersection of tradition and progress. The use of programmable LED lights allows for dynamic displays, transforming the sculpture into a living, breathing entity that engages viewers on multiple levels. The interplay of light and shadow creates mesmerizing patterns and textures, inviting contemplation and reflection.
For Curtis, the work recalls childhood memories of traveling via train through France and Belgium and being struck by the glow of red from the fields of poppies. As the viewer watches, the light shifts, theirs is a gradual realisation that the light has changed – once a soft pink, now, minutes later, it is pale amber, then that eerie yellow-orange of a muggy summer’s sunset.
The artwork serves as a catalyst for community engagement, providing a space for shared experiences and collective reflection. Whether admired by residents of Iskia Apartments or visitors passing by, “Field of Lights” invites individuals to pause and connect with the artwork, fostering a sense of belonging and unity within the community.
Find out more about Matthew Curtis: https://www.curtisglassart.com/
Instagram: Harriet Schwarzrock (@harryschwarzrock) • Instagram photos and videos
Recently, members of the Hindmarsh ACT project team joined key members of the ACT community to name Canberra’s 92nd public school.
The project name ‘North Gungahlin High School’ will be replaced, with the school now officially named ‘Agnes Shea High School’, after late senior Ngunnawal Elder Aunty Agnes Shea.
Representatives from the United Ngunnawal Elders Council, including Aunty Agnes’ granddaughter Selina Walker, attended the ceremony to mark the occasion.
Among her many achievements and contributions to Canberra and its various communities, Aunty Agnes Shea was a founding member of the United Ngunnawal Elders Council, a member of the advisory board to ACT Health, helped establish the Ngunnawal Bush Healing Farm and was a member of the ACT Heritage Council.
Once complete, the Agnes Shea High School will start by hosting Year 7 and 8 students, and then grow to cater for up to 800 students across years 7 to 10 over time.
Would you like to know more? Then, check out the ACT Government article: Canberra’s 92nd public school named – Our Canberra (act.gov.au)