What if I told you that a sculpture could change its appearance as you move around it? That’s the magic of The World Grasped Sculpture right here in Auckland.
The World Grasped Sculpture is a bronze artwork by Terry Stringer. It was unveiled by Dame Catherine Tizard. The Newmarket Arts Trust commissioned it with financial support. The Newmarket Business Association and the ASB Trusts also helped.
The name The World Grasped comes from The Ascent of Man by Bronowski. The quote says we can only grasp the world through action not contemplation. The hand is more important than the eye. The hand is the cutting edge of the mind.
Terry Stringer explains that the sculpture reveals different images. As viewers circle the work, they discover these images. From one direction you see a boy resting his head on his hand. He seems to be in thought. From another direction, the hand is plucking an apple. And from a third direction, the apple is the world. Atlas supports it on his shoulders.
The idea is to engage people. It is meant to make them think as they pass by. Two monumental images face the traffic. A life-sized figure stands on the pedestrian side. It’s a puzzle to encounter in a busy street.
The text on the side encourages viewers to experience the world. It emphasizes touch. This supports more sculpture in the world. It also endorses the Newmarket Arts Trust.
David Haigh of the Newmarket Arts Trust believes this bronze sculpture will be important. It will be part of Newmarket’s cultural landscape. He is sure it will stimulate imagination and creativity.
The World Grasped Sculpture stands 2.4 meters high. It is made of bronze. Terry Stringer created a series of changing images. They encourage interaction and reflection.
The sculpture was installed in 2006. It has since become a notable landmark. People often stop to admire and interpret it. The World Grasped invites you to explore its many perspectives. It makes you consider your own place in the world.