Isabel and Alfredo Aquilizan’s First Major Public Art ‘Bound’ Unveiled at Sirius Sydney

4 Jul 2024

Isabel and Alfredo Aquilizan’s first major public art commission Bound is now permanently on view at Sirius Sydney in The Rocks. This six-metre cast bronze sculpture, depicting a sea vessel made of 85 pieces of luggage tied by 150 metres of rope, was created with an understanding of the history and universal narratives of The Rocks.

Artist duo Isabel and Alfredo Aquilizan explained, “The work encourages viewers to reflect on their own heritage and sense of belonging to place, whilst acting as a reminder of journeys taken and explorations still to come. The physical binding of the luggage conveys the act of becoming emotionally and metaphorically bound together through community.”

“Our artwork symbolises hope and the creation of new memories, celebrating the unity formed through shared experiences and a sense of belonging. It serves as a reminder of the viewer’s own roots, personal journeys and exploration,” added Isabel and Alfredo Aquilizan.

Curated by Urban Art Projects, the artwork was commissioned by JDH Capital for Sirius Sydney.

“We are proud to have commissioned this major new public art work for Sydney by celebrated artists Isabel and Alfredo Aquilizan. Bound captures the essence of community and shared experiences and invites locals and visitors to The Rocks to reflect on their own journeys and  identities,” JDH Capital Managing Director Jean-Dominique Huynh stated.

UAP Managing Principal Owen Craven, who led the curation and fabrication of the artwork as the Public Art Consultants, worked closely with the artists throughout the process. He shared, “Isabel and Alfredo Aquilizan created Bound with a deep understanding of the rich history of The Rocks, both past and present. This significant work invites people to bring their own stories to the place and is set to become a lasting and important public artwork for this iconic location.”

Image and Video: Isabel and Alfredo Aquilizan, Bound, 2024, installation view at Sirius Sydney at The Rocks. Photo by Document Photography. Courtesy of the artist, Ames Yavuz and UAP | Urban Art Projects