Snap a photo with the latest artworks around World Square don’t forget to #WSqArt be featured!
If you didn’t know already, World Square is known as a hub for art and expression in Sydney’s CBD. The inspiration for art is closely reflected by the cultural diversity that not only exists in the World Square community, but throughout Sydney.
Gabby Malpas, who creates joyful work that is infused with a dose of Chinoiserie. Working in water colours and inks, Gabby’s artwork is a fusion of East and West; a nod to her Chinese descent and Western upbringing.
You may have noticed the intricate floral design on Lower Ground. The artwork ‘Blue Garland’ takes its inspiration from Ming and Qing Dynasty porcelain and the distinctive blue and white Delft ceramics. It also gives a hint to the artist’s background as a ceramicist. The artwork is full of cross-cultural clues, with the flowing pattern reminiscent of batik designs, referencing the artists’ travels through South-East Asia.
‘Blue Garland’ created by Gabby Malpas
The ‘Lotus and Orchids’ artwork also located on Lower Ground, reflects Gabby’s fascination with the natural world. The lotus is a revered plant throughout Asia as it rises from the mud to produce beautiful flowers as well as food sources in the leaves, roots and seeds.
‘Lotus and Orchids’ by Gabby Malpas
Opposite Superga on Ground Level, you will find the ‘Koi Pond’ artwork. Representing good fortune, the fish swim among floating auspicious clouds. Stylized cloud patterns have appeared for thousands of years in Chinese history. The cloud motif, when repeated in a pattern symbolizes never-ending fortune. The koi appear in groups of nine, signifying longevity.
‘Koi Pond’ created by Gabby Malpas
‘Pink Cranes’ located opposite Kingswood Coffee in the Square at the Spanish Steps, was created by Justine McAllister, a Melbourne based illustrator, artist and muralist. Her playful, graphic artwork is influenced by pop culture, comic books, vintage illustration and animation. Her trademark style is well known in the world-famous Melbourne street art scene, with her artwork even featured on a tram as part of the Melbourne Festival.
‘Pink Cranes’ created by Justine McAllister
The crane is symbolic in the art history of Asia. It is believed to represent happiness, eternal youth, good fortune and longevity. This design is a modern take on the ancient wood block prints and paintings of China, Japan, Korea and Thailand. It showcases a cluster of cranes adorned with modern patterns and texture. The colour palette pays homage to traditional art but is given a bold and contemporary illustrative aesthetic.
These incredible art installations were curated by our Cultural & Artistic Ambassador, Claudia Chan Shaw. To read more about her click here. For more #WSqArt featured in unexpected places around World Square, explore here.
Don’t forget to snap a photo with the dynamic new artworks and #WSqArt to be featured!
