Iconic ‘Spirit of Sydney’ artwork takes pride of place at ICC Sydney

02 Oct 2024

International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney), managed by ASM Global, has announced the addition of the monumental artwork ‘Spirit of Sydney’ by renowned Australian artist Frank Hodgkinson to its collection of the nation’s most impressive large format artworks created by Australian artists. Normally reserved for event attendees, members of the community were able to view the iconic ‘Spirit of Sydney’ mural at the venue’s art tours, guided by art restorer David Stein today.

Spanning an impressive 32 metres in width and standing at three metres in height, this vibrant artwork of 18 large panels embodies the essence of the cosmopolitan city of Sydney’s optimism and energy. Created during a pinnacle moment in Sydney’s history following its successful bid for the 2000 Olympics, ‘Spirit of Sydney’ reflects Hodgkinson’s admiration for artists Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso. Despite battling illness, Hodgkinson passionately completed the mural, viewing it as his final masterpiece before his passing at the age of 82 in 2001.

Placemaking NSW Chief Executive, Anita Mitchell said the decision to house Hodgkinson’s masterpiece at ICC Sydney was a natural choice, symbolising its role as a central hub in Sydney’s economic and cultural fabric.

“As a central gateway to broader NSW and Australia, ICC Sydney stands as an ideal venue to exhibit this iconic artwork, celebrating Sydney’s position as a global city and celebrating its vibrant arts scene,” Ms Mitchell said.

ICC Sydney General Manager, Adam Mather-Brown welcomed the addition of such a significant artwork to the collection hosted by the venue: “Both event attendees and organisers join us in admiration of Frank Hodgkinson’s magnificent ‘Spirit of Sydney’.

“The new addition joins Hodgkinson’s ‘Night Loading Darling Harbour’ and works by some of Australia’s most recognisable and talented artists, including Brett Whitely, Tim Storrier, John Olsen, Gloria Tamerre Petyarre and more, in an impressive large format collection.

“We are proud to have shared the entire collection with members of the community today,” Mr Mather-Brown said.

Frank’s daughter Zoe Hodgkinson spoke on behalf of her family: “Frank Hodgkinson was a uniquely Australian artist. Despite many formative years spent abroad, and in other parts of Australia, he was a Sydney boy born and raised. His sense of place and connection to Sydney ran deep and he was called to return both physically and as a subject for his work time and time again throughout his life.

“Hodgkinson was endlessly drawn to Sydney’s waterfront and often spoke of how it lifted his spirit and never failed to spark his creativity. ‘Spirit of Sydney’ could well be Hodgkinson’s magnum opus. The work captures the essence of Australia’s natural beauty, and a moment in time when Sydney was centre stage during the 2000 Olympics, finally, and rightfully, making itself known to the world as an extraordinary cosmopolitan metropolis. It’s fitting that this quintessential piece of Australian art now takes pride of place within ICC Sydney – an iconic Sydney venue,” Ms Hodgkinson said.

Frank Hodgkinson’s ‘Spirit of Sydney’ was donated to the New South Wales Government through the Australian Government’s Cultural Gifts Program by The Fullerton Hotels and Resorts and Far East Organization and marks a significant contribution to New South Wales’ cultural heritage, while elevating ICC Sydney’s visitor experience.

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