St John Paull II Monument St Patrick’s Cathedral
Project Location
Parramatta, NSW
Client
Diocese of Parramatta
Project Team
Jesse Mowbray
Photography
Adrian Middledrop, Brendan Moffat, Giovanni Portelli
A series of elegantly crafted podium steps were designed to elevate and seamlessly integrate Linda Klarfeld's bronze sculpture, which depicts St John Paul II, founder of the Diocese of Parramatta, surrounded by the people of Western Sydney whom the diocese serves. In close collaboration with Linda Klarfeld, the precise placement of each figure was carefully considered. The resulting foundation not only supports the sculptures but also harmonizes them with the surrounding site, merging art, architecture, and the environment into a cohesive and meaningful composition. The subtly curving steps visually draw viewers upwards, gently guiding their gaze toward the central figure of St John Paul II, while each step offers a reflection of his enduring legacy, with his contributions inlaid in bronze on the concrete risers, creating a profound visual and spiritual journey. The monument was dedicated on September 5, 2015.