A few words
According to my dear friends here, being a sculptor is a rare career choice for even the most creative of people. Quite apart from an artist’s eye, there is a need for knowledge of the many traditional artistic forms of expression – from drawing to bronze casting – which are essential to translate concepts into solid objects. Physical strength and confidence are also required to work with a sympathetic but unforgiving material.
A tribute to enormous creativity Rhyl Hinwood is undoubtedly best known for her work at The University of Queensland. As University Sculptor since 1976, she has created a rich legacy of carvings for generations to discover and enjoy. Rhyl might choose other words, but for me, as a long-time observer of her work and reviewing its impressive span through the images featured in this book, central to that vision is her commitment to authenticity, her strong sense of history and of the responsibility of artists to be recorders of history, and, above all, the idea of art as tribute. Tribute to the medium in which she is working – whether sandstone, bronze, marble or clay. Although drawn to choose materials that, in her own words, “will stand the test of time”, with every piece she sculpts Rhyl calls attention to the material’s beautiful qualities, as well as its strengths and possibilities. Tribute to the subject and setting – ensuring that her designs incorporate elements that anchor the sculpture in its location and in its time and context. Rhyl takes meticulous care in researching her subjects to create works of integrity that will also stand the test of time, gifting to future generations information about our times. Tribute to the natural world – its abundance and diversity. Rhyl’s world teems with life: birds, flowers, foliage and animals are a constant focus of her creativity, with Queensland’s distinctive flora and fauna especially featured. Here, too, while relishing and wanting to celebrate the beauty she sees around her, Rhyl feels a sense of responsibility to use her art for a larger purpose, saying that our rare and amazing creatures should not only be a source of pride, but should also acknowledge our responsibility for their care and protection. It’s an important message – not only about conservation but about the artist herself – offering insight into her feelings and her vision of what art can and should achieve, influencing people to appreciate the world in a different way. I wish all readers enjoyment of this book, trusting that it will inspire you to look at Rhyl Hinwood’s work with fresh eyes and a deepened understanding of her purpose and contribution. The Honourable Dr Penelope Wensley AC Governor of Queensland 2008–2014 Fellow of The Women’s College and King’s College, UQ Patron, Alumni Friends of UQ 2008–2020
4
