Einstein looms with peace message

11 December 2006

“Imagination is More Important than Knowledge” Einstein once said. Questacon honours the scientist most remembered for his groundbreaking theories about the laws of the universe today as the National Science and Technology Centre opens two new outdoor sculptures, Rock Music and Einstein. The sculptures emerge on either side of the main entrance to the Questacon building joining the existing Wetherell Sculpture (the Astronomer) expanding Questacon’s outdoor exhibits.

Einstein displays two different images with Einstein’s familiar features from the front and from the side the sculpture transforming into a magnificent peace dove symbolizing Einstein’s work against nuclear weapons to foster world peace. The sculpture consists of a metal base with the formula E=mc2 in relief style. Einstein’s head and hair/peace dove work are cut outs of metal plate and all have a dipped galvanized finish.

Rock Music comprises of two large metal structures that have a musical bed of nails trapped between them. Visitors pour small rocks/stones down through the bed of nails creating a pleasant musical chorus as the nails are struck.

Questacon Exhibitions Services Manager Dr Stuart Kohlhagen expressed his excitement in seeing the idea become a reality. “We are delighted to see these sculptures take pride of place outside our buildings entrance. They are such fantastic symbols of science. Visitors are fascinated to see Einstein morph into a peace dove which reminds us of not only his amazing work in science but also in fostering world peace” he said.

Questacon developed the two unique outdoor sculptures through the generous donation from the Glencore Charitable Trust. The Founder of the Trust, Glencore International AG, a Swiss based company selected Questacon as one of 17 'charities' to receive funds to be used predominantly for the benefit of children in Australia.