The Widening Gyre

Title of artwork: The Widening Gyre 

Artist: Graham Bennett

Date: 2026

Category of work: Sculpture

Media: Stainless Steel & Corten Steel (base)

Dimensions: W1200 x D800 x H400mm (sculpture), W650 x D550 x H2750mm (base)

Where you can see it: South Quad

Graham Bennett is one of New Zealand’s most prominent sculptors. His monumental public works include Reasons for Voyaging outside Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū, Position Fixing at Auckland Airport, and Extant at Knox Plaza Christchurch, among many others.

The Widening Gyre is a response to the slowing of the Antarctic circumpolar ocean current. This current is the world’s largest and strongest ocean current, completely encircling Antarctica, linking all oceans, and moving millions of cubic metres of water per second. It plays a substantial role in the world’s climate, transporting heat and nutrients. The current is slowing due to climate change. Scientists note this slowing Gyre may have disastrous effects on Antarctica’s environment and, ultimately, the entire world’s.

Available for purchase via The Central Art Gallery, or email art@thecentral.co.nz