Heart of Country (2021)
MATERIALS Corten steel
LOCATION Lila Park Travelling Stock Reserve (TSR), Lachlan Valley Way, Condobolin
He stands proudly at six metres tall. His bold stance and keen focus cuts a potent and deadly impression whilst making the inescapable suggestion that he is searching for something unseen, lost along the way, relegated to the past.
The one tonne Corten Steel sculpture explores the notions of strength, vulnerability and connection.
‘Heart of Country’ is an attempt to acknowledge the injustices endured by the Wiradjuri people, whilst also standing as testament to the collective resilience and determination of all indigenous Australians, and their profound spiritual connection with the land.
When creating the work, Damian was extremely conscious that this piece rested on a delicate cultural landscape, and that it must be approached with the gravity and sensitivity it demands.
“I felt it incumbent on me to create a work that fulfils the brief in a manner that would resonate with people regardless of their heritage, and that the best way to achieve this was by depicting a noble, strong and proud figure, but one that clearly declares and acknowledges the damage and loss inflicted upon the First Australians.”
The nature of the subject matter and developing the piece in conjunction with the local indigenous community was a profoundly enriching experience for Damian.
“Seeing it in its final location, standing tall, with its earthy finish was an extremely proud moment and gave a sense of finality to a sculpture that I consider the most powerful and important one of my career to date” – Damian Vick.
About the Sculptor
Damian Vick (Melbourne, VIC)
Damian Vick is a leading Melbourne based artist, working predominantly in sculpture and installations.
Emerging from a background in graphic design, his search for a more expressive and physical medium led him to focus his energy and passion for metal, engineering and craftsmanship in 2008.
The natural world, its patterns and underlying principles constitute a major theme in his work. Using metals, timber and other natural materials, his aesthetic explores a landscape that ranges from bold and structured to lyrical and organic.
As a leading Melbourne artist, his award-winning works has been featured in exhibitions, blogs, magazines, and television shows.