Bourke & Bowden – Guan Wei – Public Art
Set within the Bourke and Bowden development in Alexandria, Sydney, our collaboration with internationally renowned artist Guan Wei has brought a unique cultural and artistic presence to this vibrant precinct. Positioned just 4km south of Sydney’s CBD and in proximity to the historic Yiu Ming Chinese Temple, the site holds deep cultural significance, with a history of Chinese settlement dating back to the 1870s. Guan Wei’s sculptures, collectively titled Salvation – Play with a Cloud No. 1,2,3,4, reflect this rich heritage while contributing to the rejuvenation of Alexandria as a creative and multicultural hub.
Guan Wei is an internationally acclaimed Chinese-Australian artist known for his distinctive style that blends traditional Chinese philosophies with contemporary aesthetics. His work often explores themes of cultural identity, harmony, and the relationship between humanity and nature. Renowned for his humour and symbolism, Guan Wei’s sculptures and paintings create a dialogue between tradition and modernity, offering profound insights into multicultural experiences and shared human connections.
Our studio played a pivotal role in transforming Guan Wei’s conceptual artworks into large-scale sculptures.
To capture the precision and intricacy of the designs, we used advanced 3D scanning and CAD software, ensuring every detail was faithfully reproduced. The sculptures were then scaled, prototyped, and cast in chemical blanching matte black bronze, with internal reinforced steel structures for long-term durability.
Positioned across the site, these works seamlessly integrate into the Italian-style garden architecture, offering moments of reflection and joy for those who pass through.
Artwork no. 3 (Holding the Cloud)
Artwork Weight (Bronze) 187kg
Engineering the internal structures
Services
- 3D Scanning
- Construction Documentation
- Engineering
- Manufacturing
- Transport & Logistics
- Installation & Illumination
