Celestial Serpent: Lunar New Dawn

Commissioned by Scentre Group for Westfield Sydney during the 2024 Lunar New Year, the Golden Serpent was conceived as both a public artwork and a cultural statement. As the industry leader in retail property across Australia and New Zealand, Scentre Group sets the highest benchmarks of safety, design, and execution. To be entrusted with this commission was recognition that the project’s design and technical capabilities had reached a world-class standard.

The suspended serpent sculpture drew inspiration from the Chinese zodiac “Snake,” embodying prosperity, wisdom, and renewal. Its form was derived from the interwoven geometry of a traditional Chinese knot, symbolizing unity and continuity, while its surface was patterned with ancient Chinese coins, representing wealth and good fortune. Through shimmering golden materials and carefully orchestrated lighting, the serpent transformed the soaring atrium into a festive focal point, integrating Eastern cultural symbolism with contemporary spatial aesthetics.

Beyond visual impact, the installation carried a deliberate cross-cultural mission. In Chinese tradition, the snake is an auspicious symbol of adaptability and rebirth, yet in many Western contexts it is often linked to negative archetypes. The Golden Serpent reinterpreted this imagery with authenticity and positivity, challenging stereotypes and fostering new understanding. It became not only a festive landmark but also a dialogue between cultures, presenting Chinese design to international audiences with depth and respect.

The project demanded extraordinary technical solutions. With no pre-existing suspension points, the team engineered a bespoke rigging system anchored to the glass structure, certified through rigorous testing. Installation was carried out at a height of five stories under strict safety protocols, with modular transport and segmented assembly overcoming logistical restrictions. Using precise 3D modeling, the sculpture was positioned within millimeters of tolerance, all within an eight-hour time frame.

Sustainability was embedded throughout the process. Lightweight composite materials reduced consumption, steel elements were recyclable, and modular construction allowed disassembly and reuse. Pre-fabrication minimized waste, while a low-energy lighting system ensured efficiency during operation.