Perhaps unexpectedly, the Cartwheeling Youngster sculpture raises eyebrows. Some find these bronze figures creepy. Others see them as a playful addition to Sydney’s business district. I’m definitely in the latter camp.
The Cartwheeling Youngster and its companion piece are located right here. These sculptures are also known as The Youngsters. Sydney-based artist Caroline Rothwell created them. She originally designed them for a temporary art project. The City of Sydney acquired them later. Now they have permanent spots.
Look closely at the Cartwheeling Youngster Sculpture. Notice the material. It is bronze. This artwork plays with monumentalism in urban spaces. It also challenges our ideas about identity.
You will see two figures that comprise the Youngsters. They stand within the trajectory of monumental bronze sculpture. Drapery and even the shoes are influenced by art history. The references range from ancient classical sculpture to Rodin. However, the baggy pants and hoodies are contemporary. One figure is doing a handstand.
The Cartwheeling Youngster sculpture is a series of contradictions. It is diminutive yet powerful. It is vulnerable yet strong. The standing child has plaited hair. This further undermines social expectations.
Take an even closer look inside the hoodies. You’ll see they are coated with quartz and coal. This is a subtle comment on Australia’s mineral economy.
The Youngsters was first shown as part of the Laneways Temporary Art Program. That was from October 2012 to January 2013. This popular work was subsequently acquired into the City Art collection.
The artist Caroline Rothwell often uses unique fabrication methods. The Cartwheeling Youngster continues Rothwell’s themes. It explores the surreal encroaching on the realistic.
You might also notice a plaque nearby. It reads: “Lest we forget them…Children seeking asylum in Australia are kept in detention as part of a government policy which inflicts harm on refugees fleeing violence and persecution. Their suffering is our shame. Here at this site we remember them and together call out for change.” It appeared mysteriously one day. The artist approved it.
The Cartwheeling Youngster sculpture is more than meets the eye. It is a playful yet powerful piece. It makes a subtle comment on Australia’s mineral economy. It also raises awareness to children seeking asylum. It encourages us to question our expectations. It reminds us of the vulnerable.