Map Ref.11. The grassy verge close to Lake Burley Griffin.
A feature of Clement Meadmore's work is the square sectioned form which spirals up and down but inevitably comes to an abrupt end. Meadmore is concerned with the perception of weight, density and gravity. Whilst this sculpture may appear heavy, it is hollow and much lighter than the viewer would expect. The long rectangular shape is contorted by the central spiral which is large enough to walk through. The energy of this monolithic twist seems to defy gravity, as the work curves upward at each end.
Meadmore was one of the first sculptors to work with cor-ten steel. He admired the natural, rusted patina of this steel which, in this case, gives the impression of an industrial beam, no longer of any use and left to rot on a vacant block.
"Virginia" was commissioned by the Commonwealth Art Advisory Board in Canberra. (The Gallery's work is the only work of this title in this size.) Whilst most of Meadmore's commissions are for architectural sites, such as plazas outside buildings, he was pleased to select a site which is quite some distance from the Gallery building. The work was specially fabricated by the Lippincott Foundry in New Haven, USA, and then shipped to Australia. The work was then installed under the sculptor's supervision.
When asked why he called this work, "Virginia", Meadmore said that this was the name of his wife, a state in America and an old jazz tune he likes to play with friends in a jazz combo.
Clement Meadmore is the only sculptor to have a second work on permanent display in the Gallery grounds. The other work is "Untitled (Balustrade)", see Map Ref. No. 18.
© 1995 Jane M Hyden
