New Sculpture Commissioned for the NGA

Last month the National Gallery of Australia (NGA) announced that it has commissioned Australian artist Lindy Lee to develop an immersive, public sculpture, the Ouroboros, to commemorate the Gallery’s 40th anniversary.

You’ve probably seen a picture of an ouroboros before, because it’s an ancient symbol of a snake or serpent eating its own tail, variously signifying infinity and the cycle of birth and death. Lee’s interpretation of the ouroboros will be constructed from mirror polished stainless steel incorporating recycled materials and will be around four metres high and weigh approximately 13 tonnes.

NGA Director Nick Mitzevich said “This commission represents a defining moment in our history and aligns with our mission to reflect and respond to contemporary Australia.

“This work will become a beacon for the National Gallery: daytime or night-time, it will pulse with light and energy. During the day its highly polished mirror surface will reflect the imagery of the floating world. The transience of passers-by, cars, birds in flight, and stunning clouds. And at night the Ouroboros will be lit internally, returning its light to the world.”

The sculpture is due to be completed in early 2024.

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