Seven Giant Sculptures Representing Christian Hope to be Set up on Five Continents
The artist "has the vision to put these sculptures, which represent hope, in places of hopelessness. We have looked at prisons, hospitals, cemeteries, and other places where people need hope."
(Auckland, New Zealand)—New Zealand has been chosen as the site for the first of a series of seven giant sculptures, each representing the message of Christian hope, to be set up on five continents throughout the world.
According to a report from Assist News, on August 10, New Zealand Prime Minister and Minister of the Arts, Helen Clark, unveiled the seven metre high work of art. Estimated by the sculptors to be worth $40,000, it has been gifted by them to the North Shore Hospital and placed at its main entrance. (Photo: North Shore Hospital, NZ)
The sculpture is the inspiration of one of Eastern Europe's finest sculptors, Liviu Mocan. It depicts a seed, which must die before new life springs forth, as in John 12:24.
Together with artist John Ferguson, Mr. Mocan sculpted the work from a huge macrocarpa log during a symposium in Matakana last year, and has since been searching for the best site for it.
"Liviu has the vision to put these sculptures, which represent hope, in places of hopelessness," said Mr Fergusson. "We have looked at prisons, hospitals, cemeteries, and other places where people need hope."
Jane Hunter, executive director of North Shore Hospital Foundation, said the hospital was absolutely delighted with the gift.
The sculpture will be an important part of the hospital's 'healing arts' programme. Recognising that art has a huge positive effect on health, morale and self respect, the hospital has welcomed the gift with open arms, notes reporter Lynley Smith.
"The whole thing is very, very special," said Ms Hunter. Mr Ferguson said he hoped to be part of all five sculpture projects. The next sculpture would probably be created in China, and possibly donated to an orphanage. Each sculpture will be made from different materials but each will carry the same theme.
The sculptors have completed sixteen 450mm miniature 'seed sculptures, four in bronze and 12 in wood, to give to anyone who wants to partner with them by donation in their project.
