Australia Pavilion

130 X 194 cm     ac     2010/8/18

Featuring sculptured curving walls and a red ochre exterior, the Australia Pavilion’s appearance is inspired by the world-famous Ayer’s Rock. The color of the pavilion’s red facade is made from the use of a special kind of steel, which changes colors according to the temperature and humidity. Divided into three distinct but inter-related sections labelled “Journey,” “Discover” and “Enjoy,” the pavilion incorporates almost every aspect of Australian life. These include spectacular landscape, a strong and vibrant economy, rich culture, technological expertise and innovation, outstanding research and education, and Australia’s commitment to sustainable development.

Dr. Chen takes the majestic shape of Ayers Rock and divides it into seven different regions. In the center, he paints a sort of window that echoes the pavilion’s design; to the right he depicts a few thousand years of indigenous Nolan Rock (women), and distinctive, indigenous geometric patterns. To the left, he stylizes Australia’s unique flora and fauna, as well as its famous wildlife, such as kangaroos, ostriches, crocodiles, etc. On the bottom, Chen creates a variation of the Australian national flag, with the British Commonwealth logo on the right, surrounded by a sea of live fish, symbolizing Australia’s wealth in water resources. Finally, he encircles this continent in a blue sky of birds and melodious sea sails.