BREAKING: A stunning new sculpture titled Ancient Feelings by British artist Thomas J Price has just been unveiled outside the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia. This monumental artwork, a shimmering golden head measuring three metres high by four metres wide, is now prominently displayed on the museum’s Tallawoladah Lawn, directly facing the iconic Sydney Harbour.
This eye-catching installation, which weighs more than 1.5 tonnes, is set to attract millions, visible from the steps of the Sydney Opera House and accessible to commuters on public transport and motorists traveling on the Cahill Expressway. Cruise ships arriving in Sydney will also have a clear view of this striking piece, designed to challenge traditional notions of representation.
Price’s sculpture depicts the head of a fictional black woman, crafted to evoke feelings of power and prominence. “It’s a beautiful object, and so hopefully that will entice people to look at it a little bit longer,” Price stated, emphasizing the need for greater acknowledgment and representation of black women in art and culture.
This unveiling coincides with a gathering of arts sector leaders at the Opera House, discussing vital tax reforms to boost Australia’s arts and culture scene. Ancient Feelings is the first of three public art commissions funded by the Balnaves Foundation in honor of late philanthropist Neil Balnaves, who believed in the transformative power of public art.
MCA Director Suzanne Cotter expressed enthusiasm about the sculpture’s impact, noting that even the crane operators were impressed during its installation late on Friday night. “I think it’s going to generate a real sense of wonder and happiness,” she said, highlighting the potential for numerous “Instagrammable moments.”
Price, whose previous works have been displayed in significant locations like Times Square and Piazza della Signoria in Florence, aims to provoke thought and dialogue through his art. The intricate braids of Ancient Feelings were meticulously crafted using advanced techniques in Switzerland, while other components were produced in Shanghai, showcasing a blend of global artistry.
The sculpture will remain on display until the end of April 2026, inviting visitors to explore its depths and reflect on the themes of recognition and inclusion it embodies. The Balnaves Foundation’s chief executive, Hamish Balnaves, noted the potential benefits for the museum, which began charging for entry in January. “If this sculpture draws people into the gallery and increases visitation, that would be an amazing outcome,” he remarked.
As the art world watches, Ancient Feelings is set to spark conversations about race, representation, and the significance of public art in contemporary society. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story and its impact on Sydney’s cultural landscape.
