The sculpture A Delicate Balance has been installed in the median strip on Station St in Sandringham.
This sculpture, created by artist Bernie O’Gorman, is part of a Placemaking program of initiatives for the Sandringham Activity Centre and depicts the reliance of the turtle and earth on humans for balance and survival.
While adding beauty to the space, the artwork will also help bring energy and maximize the use of the area, benefiting the local community.
Supported by Sandy Street Art Project, Sandringham Village and Bayside City Council, the artwork will provide visitors with an opportunity to reflect on connections between humankind and the natural world.
Bernie O’Gorman has said the inspiration for the 20-year-old sculpture came from humanity’s encroachment on the natural world.
“I saw a documentary about turtles on an island in Australia,” said O’Gorman. “They were mining on the island, and the turtles were falling on their backs and couldn’t access the sea, it was one of their nesting islands.
“It’s probably more relevant now than it was 20 years ago, which is a bit sad really. I think we’ve made inroads, we’re improving, but there’s still a long way to go as getting the balance right.
“I think Sandringham is the best location the sculpture has ever been in; it feels like it belongs there.”
The sculpture is on loan from the artist for a 12 month period.
