Peter Syndicas, Burnside Village

Image: Peter Syndicas, Celestial Form. Photograph Sam Roberts.

For over 28 years, Peter Syndicas has crafted abstract figurative sculptures influenced by the patterns of plant life. Celestial Lifeform was inspired by a twig found in the Flinders Ranges, on the lands of the Adnyamathanha people. Syndicas regarded its composition as reminiscent of Michelangelo’s Creation of Adam, a floating form descending from the heavens. Whilst non-traditional fabrication methods reduced the sculpture’s weight, the welded bronze added an unanticipated dynamic, as light penetrated and allowed inner illumination.

BURNSIDE STATEMENT

Artist Statement:

Celestial Lifeform was inspired by a twig found in the Flinders Ranges, on the lands of the Adnyamathanha people. Peter Syndicas regarded its composition as reminiscent of Michelangelo’s Creation of Adam, a floating form descending from the heavens. Envisioning a large bronze shape in space, with emanating beams of golden light, Syndicas questioned whether this ambitious structure was possible. As soon discovered, the greatest challenges lead to innovative solutions. Whilst non-traditional fabrication methods reduced the sculpture’s weight, the welded bronze added an unanticipated dynamic, as light penetrated and allowed inner illumination.

Artist Biography:

For over 28 years, Peter Syndicas has crafted abstract figurative sculptures influenced by the patterns of plant life. Raised as the son of artist Anthony Syndicas, and without formal training, his artistic journey began with a chance discovery of a twig that resembled an abstract human form. Ever since, Syndicas has explored figurative shapes reflected in organic fractals. Twigs serve as the foundational shape for large-scale works, which are translated into bronze, steel, and stone, to offer a striking contrast against their innate fragility.

Syndicas’ work is represented by galleries across Australia and held in private collections worldwide, including Dubai, Singapore, and the United States. His sculptures were recently commissioned for the Marina Bay Sands refurbishment in Singapore, further cementing his internationally renowned reputation.

Images: Sair Bean, …and the roots run deep while the windows whisper. Photographs Sam Roberts and Lana Adams.

Additional Media:

Art on Display, Burnside Village

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