A monumental six metre bronze sculpture by London-based contemporary artist, Nasser Azam, was officially unveiled at the University of Aberdeen this week.
On Monday (May 27) the stunning bronze sculpture Evolutionary Loop 517, was unveiled with University Principal Professor Sir Ian Diamond, artist Nasser Azam and donor Dr John Sievwright all in attendance. The sculpture was commissioned for the Sir Duncan Rice Library, and is a new defining landmark for the University campus.
During the event Professor Sir Ian Diamond spoke to thank all concerned with the installation of the iconic piece of work and Nasser Azam also spoke about his inspiration and concept for the sculpture. Thanks were also made to Dr John Sievwright whose generous donation made the production of the sculpture possible.
Mr Azam commented: "The project has been most rewarding as I was involved with the architects from the outset. Evolutionary Loop 517 to me reflects the visually striking interior design of the library and the use of bronze cements a strong connectivity between the historic relevance and traditions of the university, and the bold and beautiful statement of the contemporary library building."
The sculpture was named following a competition launched by the University, in collaboration with the artist.
The winning entry came from Chemistry Professor Marcel Jaspars, who explained his choice: “I came up with the name as I felt this is a very organic piece, and the intertwined forms connect in a loop, which reminded me of the evolutionary process, with continuous change and connection. It reflects the fact that students, academics and staff are constantly evolving in their experiences and connections at the University of Aberdeen, to show the organic nature of the sculpture in symbiosis with the research carried out at the University and to represent the age of the University when this sculpture was made. In a diverse way, we will all have a connection with the University of Aberdeen just by looking at the sculpture. In future years, maybe people will simply say ’Let's meet at the Loop’.”
Professor Jaspars was gifted a painting of the Loop also by Nasser Azam. Three runners up in the competition were also given paintings.