Standing at almost 5 meters high, Wind and Water is the newest work of art to have made its home in Belfield, having been inaugurated by the President of UCD, Dr Hugh Brady. It can now be found sitting by the recently constructed lake opposite the engineering building. The piece joins an ever growing collection of new artwork that has dotted the college campus in recent years.
Having been inducted to UCD last Thursday, the bronze figure, which portrays male and female statues engrossed back to back in dance, was originally put on show in the Italian city of Florence. The sculpture was designed by Dublin man Paddy Campbell, who has previously been known for such work as the official portrait of former President of Ireland Mary McAleese.
“The location for the sculpture is a perfect place for Wind and Water which is Paddy Campbell’s giant tribute to the elements. The powerful bronze sculpture commands attention with exquisitely finished male and female figures absorbed in a delicate dance representing a delightful harmony between wind and water,” a spokesperson said.
Dr Brady also had positive words to say on the new piece, declaring upon its arrival that “we’re delighted to have this beautiful sculpture for all of our students, staff, visitors and the wider public to enjoy. As a lifelong learning environment UCD is also a centre of environmental, cultural and artistic amenity for everyone to enjoy.”
Campbell himself considers it to be a life masterpiece. “Sculpting is a deeply spiritual process and for me it is a constant and ongoing journey. This sculpture took immense energy to create and I’m thrilled that it will be exhibited so prominently and in such a prestigious location as University College Dublin,” said the sculptor.
“I hope it will bring much contentment to everyone who sees it, matched by an appreciation of the beauty of nature where wind and water are among the most powerful of the elements,” he added.
