Labours and Beauty of Pioneering Mankind

Public Art : Labours and Beauty of Pioneering Mankind

Sculptor : © Gerard Havekes

Date Unveiled : 15th of February, 1961

Description : A 4.5m sculpture of three carved sandstone figures depicting Water, Fire and Earth. There is something quite intriguing (or is it scary) about the three figures all huddled together. 

Location : South Western section of Hyde Park, Sydney, Australia.

Inscription :

History of the Labours and Beauty of Pioneering Mankind sculpture: The Labours and Beauty of Pioneering Mankind sculpture is part of the Frederick Joseph Walker memorial (which also includes a tiled fountain), which was presented to the City of Sydney by his family in 1961.

Rumor Has it : I am not one to gossip, but rumor has it that no one particularly likes this memorial. One recommendation suggests it should be removed from the park, as it does not aid or add to the cultural significance to the park (rather harsh). In other words, it sucks! But I ponder, where would one consider putting it? This is always the dilemna when you get given a present you don't particular want. I must admit the sculpture (not the fountain) grew on me, after I rummaged around and found the plaque. I went from what the ? to oh I get it (thank goodness for plaques). In fact the sculpture is hauntingly peaceful, if not a tad too tall and a little out of place and would probably be a lot more appreciated in the Royal Botanic Gardens (where they are a lot little less picky).

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