Last Thursday aspex launched a new off-site light sculpture designed by S. Mark Gubb on top of the Hard Interchange in Portsea. This special commission is composed of brightly coloured neon balloons and a sword, which refers to the Greek tale of Damocles, a fable which cautions ‘be careful what you wish for’ and ‘with great power comes responsibility’. The title of the sculpture, ‘Trav’ller in the Dark’ is taken from the 18th Century poem ‘The Star’ by Jane Taylor. The opening stanza is widely known as the first verse of the nursery rhyme ‘Twinkle Twinkle Little Star’.

The artwork features a changeable sign, similar to those seen outside cinemas, which will display a selection of texts, drawn from suggestions made by the public. aspex has produced cards on which members of the public can suggest what they would like the sign to say in this busy area of the city, whether it’s wishing someone a happy birthday, or quoting a favourite philosopher. These cards are available from the gallery and Visitor Information Centres around the city. Watch aspex’s website and Facebook page for image updates of the sign’s different messages.