A public artwork has been commissioned by two eastern Sydney councils as a permanent sculpture to reflect the impact of the events of the deadly 7 October 2023 Hamas terror attack in Israel.
Two years on from the attack which saw 1,195 music festival-goers killed and 251 taken hostage, Woollahra Council and Waverley Council have revealed the design of a new permanent sculpture for Christison Park in Vaucluse.
The piece, titled In Them We See Ourselves, comprises fragments of weathered Corten steel rising from the earth and leaning inward, offering shelter within on a quiet seat, speaking of both fracture and protection, grief and endurance. The councils say the sculpture has been designed to be interacted with, “providing a visually compelling space for quiet reflection, contemplation and meditation”.
The artist behind the sculpture will be publicly credited only as ‘Anonymous’.
“In recognition of the sensitivities surrounding this work, anonymity allows the focus to remain only on the community it represents,” the creator said.
Woollahra Mayor, Sarah Dixson said she was proud to announce the new sculpture’s commissioning.
“Given the impacts of recent events on our communities, I am proud that Woollahra Council initiated this joint commemorative artwork with Waverley Council,” Mayor Dixson said.
“The sculpture will speak to the pain of our community following the events of that day, and the months which followed, which have irreparably changed the lives of so many. In Them We See Ourselves will be an enduring testament to resilience and harmony.”
Waverley Mayor, Will Nemesh, described the poignant symbolism embedded within the work as “deeply moving”.
“The horrific events of 7 October marked the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust and the attack, as well as the disturbing rise of antisemitism that followed, had a profound impact on the Waverley community,” Mayor Nemesh said.
“I have no doubt this installation will be a welcomed place of healing from which to both reflect and look forward.”
The Councils say a Joint Public Art Installation Committee considered submissions that encouraged reflection, evoked feelings of solace and connectedness, and promoted compassion and respect, while also taking advantage of the site’s natural features, including its elevation and exposure to the sun and wind.
From the rear, the piece reflects the silhouette of a flame that is only made complete when a visitor sits within it on the bench and their body forms the core.
“These careful and heartfelt considerations deliver a sculpture that is part public art, part furniture and part monument,” the Councils said in a statement.
They say the community now has an opportunity to contribute towards the cost of the commission, with both Councils to share the balance.
For more information on how to donate, contact culture@woollahra.nsw.gov.au or phone (02) 9391 7102.
