HELEN NEYLAND, ARTIST & DIRECTOR, ENTANGLEMENTS METAL STUDIO

Q What are the biggest challenges facing your industry right now?

A Moving away from art in public spaces that represent cliched symbols or that only speak to a narrow or dominant audience is a limited view point that we need to move beyond. While we cherish our iconic imagery, I believe it’s time to embrace uniquely Australian designs that capture the diverse essence of our nation. We can draw inspiration from our rich Indigenous culture, the unique Australian flora and fauna, and the multicultural tapestry that is modern Australia. It’s about creating designs that resonate with people on a deeper level and forge a meaningful connection with the environment.

Q What opportunities do you predict for the growth of your industry in 2024?

A Incorporating Indigenous motifs (cultural symbols, warriors, unique representations of flora and fauna) into public spaces through art would be a beautiful way to pay homage to the First Nation Peoples’ significant contribution to Australia’s history. The designs should be collaborative and respectful, involving Indigenous artists and communities to ensure cultural authenticity. By seamlessly integrating Indigenous art and symbolism into public spaces and memorials, we not only honour their legacy but also educate and create awareness around their vital role in our nation’s history.

Q What do you feel is your industry’s biggest contribution to the public space arena over the last decade?

A With the shift in perspective around urban development in the last decade geared towards ensuring a better quality of life for residents of all demographics, including art of diverse types in living environments has become essential. Art in retirement communities, for example, plays a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for residents.

The increase in high-density living in residential towers, particularly in urban centres, has highlighted the necessity of creating warm and inviting spaces. Art in courtyards, foyers, communal open space and the like has proven to foster a sense of community and belonging in such environments. Community gardens also benefit from sculptures and installations, helping to promote relaxation and contemplation. Art can help residents connect with nature and provide a tranquil space for reflection, which is essential for overall wellbeing.

Q In what direction would you like to see your company move over the next five years?

A My vision for the future of Australian sculpture design is to create timeless pieces that serve as a bridge between the past, present and future of our nation. I envision designs that tell stories of our entire history, celebrate our cultural diversity and showcase our stunning landscapes.

It is the mandate of Entanglements moving forward to create sculptures that are not only visually striking but also emotionally evocative, fostering a sense of pride and belonging among all Australians. We will also aim to see more collaborative efforts with Indigenous artists and a stronger commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly materials in sculpture design.

Q What is unique to your company this is not being widely done by others in your industry and why is it valuable?

A Entanglements is dedicated to staying at the forefront of design trends and innovations. By continuously pushing the boundaries of creativity and engaging with a wide range of stakeholders, we ensure a steady stream of inspiring projects that contribute positively to our public spaces and the broader Australian landscape. I believe in building strong relationships with clients and understanding their unique visions and needs.

I also actively seek out opportunities to collaborate with local communities, Indigenous artists and architects to create meaningful and impactful artworks.

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HELEN NEYLAND

An award-winning artist with a passion for design, Helen has studied an array of art and trade subjects at Swinburne University. Her design philosophy gravitates towards simple design, finding a strong focal point and creating a stunning feature, then working a story around that peace. Helen believes that artworks should be timeless and mean something to the viewer.