Yes, you read that right. A giant inflatable sphere will be coming to the NGV this summer. The unique installation (This is) Air developed by Nic Brunsdon in collaboration with ENESS, has been selected as the NGV’s 2023 Architecture Commission.

The structure will stand over 14 metres tall and literally breathe throughout the day. It will morph and change shape as it expands and then releases air in a natural rhythm. On each ‘exhale’ gusts of air will be released and an array of cloud-like configurations will form before it fills to capacity once more to create a spherical shape. 

Through this installation Brundson invites audiences to consider humanity’s relationship to this essential and yet invisible element. By making air seen, heard and felt, the work highlights our connection to and dependency on air – a finite resource whose quality is becoming increasingly affected.

“The idea for this project was conceived by the architect during the global pandemic, when the air we breathed was suddenly at the forefront of everyone’s mind,” says Ewan McEoin, senior curator, contemporary art, design, and architecture.

“Taking the form of a giant inflatable sphere, this living structure inhales and exhales before our eyes, giving presence to that omnipresent yet invisible element that connects us all. Air can be understood as part of our global economic, social and ecological realities. And yet, the quality of air we breathe varies depending on where and how we live. Air is universal, yet clean air is not.”

(This is) Air will be on display throughout the summer months and will be the location for a myriad of public programs, performances and more in the NGV Garden. It’s also free for the public to visit. 

For more information, visit ngv.vic.gov.au

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