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Harmony Bells Arrive For Cowes Town Square

The sculpture, Harmony Bells has arrived for Cowes Town Square.

By Bass Coast - 26th June 2012 - Back to News

The artist, Dr Anton Hassell, created the public art piece in his studio and delivered the artwork according to plan on Thursday, June 20.

Dr Hassell delivered the four bronze Harmony Bell sculptures, however they will be installed once the wet weather eases and ground conditions become suitable.

Bass Coast Shire Council’s Director of Community and Economic Development, Steven Piasente, said landscaping works at the site on Phillip Island have been held up due to the wet weather.

"Extensive work had to be done underground before landscaping could begin. Some work including installation of the Harmony Bells will have to wait until the weather improves.

"Council’s Public Art Reference Committee selected the Harmony Bells and they will be one of features of the new Cowes Town Square," said Mr Piasente.

"Each bronze bell is adorned with a small sculpture of a surfer on top of a wave, and each sculpture is different. The Harmony Bells will contribute a peaceful element to the Town Square, and can be used by individuals or groups.

Dr Hassell said he is looking forward to overseeing the Harmony Bells being installed into their final location.

"The new bells were produced by Australian Bell which specialises in developing bell designs for public spaces. The bells were created using traditional bell styles and new technologies to get their sounds just right.

"The four bells are all different and are tuned to create a playful vibration of sounds, played gently, quietly and joyfully. If they are all played together they will create a beautiful field of sound that washes over you – like a wave," Dr Hassell said.

The Bells are tapped using a nylon clapper which dampens the sound.

Photos of Dr Hassell casting the Harmony Bells and the story behind their design are online at www.basscoast.vic.gov.au. We will post more photos of the installation process when this happens.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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