One of Australia\u2019s most celebrated contemporary artists, Andrew Rogers, was awarded an honorary degree at Deakin\u2019s first round of graduation ceremonies in Geelong last week. <\/p>\n
The sculptor was formally recognised for his distinguished contribution to art and culture, most notably his support of the university\u2019s art collection. <\/p>\n
An internationally acclaimed figure in the creative sphere, Rogers was the leader behind \u201cRhythms of Life\u201d \u2013 the largest contemporary land art undertaking in the world. <\/p>\n
It forms a chain of 51 stone structures, with the project involving more than 7,500 people in 16 countries across seven continents. <\/p>\n
Last year he gifted 88 of his artworks, worth a total of $3.7 million, to the Deakin University Art Collection.<\/p>\n
\u201cArt adds a dimension to life, and most of my works are optimistic symbols about life and regenerations,\u201d Rogers said.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs an artist I play a part in positively stimulating public discourse about what we should all be striving for in terms of positive outcomes in these defining times.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe challenge as an artist is to find new and different ways to use materials and make them convey meanings that haven\u2019t previously been seen \u2013 so there is significant connection between my ethos and Deakin\u2019s thinking.\u201d<\/p>\n
Deakin\u2019s art collection has been curated over the past two decades and now features more than 2,000 works.<\/p>\n
The university’s vice-chancellor Professor Iain Martin said Rogers\u2019 works were a primal asset in Deakin\u2019s collection.<\/p>\n
\u201cThroughout his career, Mr Rogers has demonstrated a remarkable ability to develop new forms of expression and renew his artistic vision. I urge Deakin graduates to emulate his mindset, to continue to be inquisitive and seek out new learnings whenever they need to.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere is a distinct synergy between Deakin\u2019s mission to encourage students to seek education in a wider sense and Mr Rogers\u2019 work \u2013 the integrity and bravery to think in new ways, consider the possibilities, and form new perspectives.\u201d<\/p>\n
Rogers delivered the occasional address to graduate students at Deakin\u2019s Waterfront campus on Wednesday last week. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
One of Australia\u2019s most celebrated contemporary artists, Andrew Rogers, was awarded an honorary degree at Deakin\u2019s first round of graduation ceremonies in Geelong last week. The sculptor was formally recognised for his distinguished contribution to art and culture, most notably his support of the university\u2019s art collection. An internationally acclaimed figure in the creative sphere, […]<\/p>\n