‘21st MOVEMENT…’ Sonata at Warroo Reserve, approximately 45km from Forbes, is the 21st artwork added to the popular Sculpture Down the Lachlan trail. It is one of two sculptures to be located within Warroo Reserve. The second will be unveiled later this year.
The 21st addition to the Sculpture Down the Lachlan trail depicts a child playing the violin while balancing on the back of a life-sized bull.
The Warroo Reserve, 45km from Forbes, is home to this new sculpture called Sonata by Suzie Bleach and Andrew Townsend that is an exploration of the delicate relationships between humans and nature.
“The bull represents the powerful forces of nature in contrast to the fragility of the child and her violin. It is as if the bull is held under a spell by her music,” said Suzie.
“At the heart of it, Sonata expresses the need for an accord with nature. When properly appeased, the raging bull can become surprisingly tender. This sculpture is especially significant at this moment in human history. It explores our relationship with nature and of the delicate and careful balance required if we are to survive the challenges of climate change and the viral pandemic.”
Working with 3mm corten steel plate, the creative duo from the Sapphire Coast in NSW took seven months to design and create the 800kg piece.
“Our process begins with anatomical research and life-sized drawings. A friend’s enthusiastic daughter was our model for the child figure. She chose the outfit, gumboots and all!”
“The sculpture consists of hundreds of individual steel panels traced from cardboard patterns and then pressed, hammered and welded to assume the desired form,” said Suzie.
Forbes Arts Society Chairperson Trudy Mallick said the latest installation looked at home within the striking landscape of Warroo Reserve.
“Not only does Sonata continues the trail’s unofficial theme of environmental sustainability and preservation, the sculpture also commemorates a significant moment in history and will play an important role in our region’s post-pandemic recovery.”
Forbes Shire Council Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM said: “I think it is a beautiful piece which connects this amazing art program with our strong agricultural legacy. It is great honour to be fostering an inclusive and culturally rich community with our world class permanent public art trail.”
She said the dynamic arts and events program made Forbes a regionally iconic tourist destination.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said the unveiling of the new sculpture would provide onlookers with a unique experience, while adding to the region’s growing reputation as an arts and cultural destination.
“The Sonata sculpture is a fantastic addition to the Lachlan trail, providing visitors with a unique experience and a powerful and timely message. I urge locals and visitors alike to take a stroll along the trail to see this new addition for themselves.”
For more information about the project, visit www.forbesartssociety.com.