Created by German born Australian sculptor Inge King, 'Shearwater' was commissioned in 1994 by Esso Australia and installed 1995 along the Southbank Promenade, Southbank.
The stylised polychrome steel bird was inspired by bird watching during her Northern Territory visits. It was created during the period of time where her technique involved using cut paper and/or balsa wood pieces, and assembling them into an arrangement which was then upscaled into a final design created in cut steel or cast in bronze.
'Shearwater' has been constructed from cut steel and coated with synthetic polymer in black along with thoughtful touches of primary colours (red and blue) to highlight features.
To me, Inge King has captured the moment when the Australian sea bird is poised with anticipation waiting for the wind to increase so that it can take flight and begin its oceanic gliding journey.
