The State Government has gifted a stunning outdoor sculpture by prominent West Australian artist and Curtin graduate Anne Neil to Curtin University in recognition of the University’s 50th year of innovation this year.
Students first started studying at the Western Australian Institute of Technology (WAIT), Curtin’s predecessor institution, in 1967.
Curtin University Vice-Chancellor Professor Deborah Terry said the University was honoured to accept the sculpture, and added that she was delighted the artist was a Curtin graduate.
“This outstanding work was created by a prominent Curtin graduate who has been making high profile public art around Perth for many years,” Professor Terry said.
“The work will make a stunning feature for our students, staff and campus visitors to enjoy when it moves to its permanent home on the Bentley Campus after being on show at Sculpture by the Sea.
Ms Neil’s work, Murmur, is made from marine grade aluminium and is approximately 200cm x 300cm x 300cm with an abstract reference to the biological form of a shell.
“Murmur also has an interesting visual reference to the iconic WAIT logo created by David Walker, as well as other public artworks on campus by major Australian artist, Howard Taylor,” Professor Terry said.
“It will be a wonderful addition to the Curtin Art Collection.”
Premier Colin Barnett said the State Government was proud to recognise this milestone for Curtin University on behalf of all West Australians.
“Curtin University has made a significant contribution to WA since it opened its door to students in 1967 as the WA Institute of Technology,” Mr Barnett said.
Anne Neil has degrees in design and sculpture. She completed her BA in 1985 at Curtin and in 1992 she attended the ANU obtaining a post graduate degree in sculpture.
Anne has held eleven solo exhibitions and contributed to numerous group exhibitions including exhibiting at Sculpture by the Sea in 2016.
She has completed international residences in Switzerland, Malaysia and Korea and in 2012 she was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award by Artsource, the peak membership body for visual artists in Western Australia.
Murmur will be on display at Sculpture by the Sea from 3 – 20 March.
