BIRD IN THE HAND: Forbes Deputy Mayor Jenny Webb with sculptor Mike Van Dam and Forbes Art Society’s Keith Mullette
The phrase ‘a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush’ is the inspiration behind the latest sculpture to be unveiled as part of Sculpture Down the Lachlan (SDL) extension.
‘Bird in Hand’ by Gold Coast sculptor Michael ‘Mike’ Van Dam represents the profound responsibility of environmental preservation, sustainability and development bestowed upon humans.
“This sculpture reminds viewers that we need to preserve and protect this important environment and its future state, such as native birds and all fauna, are in our hands,” Mike said.
“This piece was made from 1600 meters of 10mm, 316 marine-grade, stainless steel chain, with 38 links per meter and 4 welds per link. This equates to just over 243,000 welds and took eight months to complete.”
The 6.5 metre, 3.5 tonne piece depicting a hyper-realistic hand cradling a great white egret, was unveiled at Straney’s Bridge, 37 kilometres from Forbes towards Condobolin.
‘Bird in Hand’ becomes the 14th sculpture featured along the SDL trail from Forbes to Condobolin.
Chair of the Forbes Arts Society (FAS) Dr Karen Ritchie said, “like much of Mike’s other work, ‘Bird in the Hand’ sends a strong message about responsible conservation of our natural environment”.
“We are so excited to launch the latest sculpture in the trail,” said Forbes Shire Council Mayor, Phyllis Miller OAM.
“It is beautifully made and its message will resonate with our locals, that’s for sure!”
The ‘Boosting the Lachlan Valley Economy Art Project’ is proudly funded by the NSW Government’s Restart NSW program through the Regional Growth, Environment and Tourism Development Fund, the Forbes Arts Society, Forbes Shire Council, Lachlan Shire Council and Evolution Mining.
For more information about the project, visit www.forbesartssociety.com