Photos: Josef Ruckli
Work is underway on Ouroboros, an immersive public sculpture by Australian artist Lindy Lee, to be installed in the National Gallery forecourt.
The fabrication of this monumental piece is taking place at the Urban Art Projects (UAP) Foundry in Northgate.
The sculpture, which will measure around four metres high and weigh approximately 13 tonnes, is being meticulously crafted to reflect Lee’s vision of interconnectedness and cycles of renewal.

Image for 20221103 jruckli LindyLee NGA UAP 087
Photos: Josef Ruckli

Ouroboros, based on the ancient image of a snake eating its own tail, symbolises eternal return and the cyclical nature of existence.
Lee’s work spans more than four decades and explores her Chinese ancestry through Taoism and Ch’an (Zen) Buddhism, philosophies that emphasise the inseparable link between humanity and nature. This philosophy is embodied in Ouroboros, which will feature a highly polished mirrored surface to reflect the ephemeral world during the day, including passers-by, cars, birds, and clouds. At night, the sculpture will be illuminated from within, its light streaming through hundreds of perforations to create a mesmerising display.
In addition to its aesthetic and symbolic significance, Ouroboros is a testament to sustainable art. The sculpture incorporates recycled materials and uses renewable energy, aiming to minimize its carbon footprint and making it one of Australia’s pioneering sustainable public artworks.
Commissioned to celebrate the National Gallery’s 40th anniversary in 2022, Lindy Lee’s Ouroboros is set to be completed in 2024, ready to become a beacon of light and energy, both day and night.

Made in Northgate at UAP Company
On display when completed at the National Gallery – Parkes Place, Parkes, Canberra