Gallery

Curtain 4 Conjunctis viribus

The central focus is a dynamic female footballer. The Games have progressed even further, becoming inclusive with events that showcase abilities that not only reflect physical performance, but highlight the beauty of sport, such as the beautiful game. The mythological Japanese dragon encircles the footballer, signifying strength and bringing luck, fortune and balance as we heal from the impact of COVID-19. There is re-balance and re-structure after difficult times.

Hannah Wilkinson

Curtain 2 Aut viam inveniam aut faciam

An ancient Olympia track athlete bursts into the frame, again signifying the Olympic motto – CITIUS – ALTIUS – FORTIUS: Faster – Higher – Stronger. Physical human performance and resilience are the foundation for the Olympic Games. The runner faces the challenge ahead; the unexpected wave of COVID-19. Japan’s Rising Sun hangs in the background, waiting, wondering what’s next. Resilience will be tested, but it is a core value, ingrained and immovable.

Hannah Wilkinson

Curtain 1 Natura non constristatur

The first symbol seen in this piece is a large wave, which represents the unfortunate arrival of COVID-19. To the right of the wave, in the navy sky, rests the Rising Sun of Japan, representing the host of the 2020 Olympic Games. A discus thrower, depicted from the ancient games of Olympia, readies himself for a sensational throw. He epitomises the Olympic motto – CITIUS – ALTIUS – FORTIUS: Faster – Higher – Stronger. This is the foundation of the Olympic Games. The beginning of its evolution. A pandemic may have changed the course of the Games, but these values are ingrained and immovable.

Hannah Wilkinson

Curtain 5 Ad meliora

A surfer shreds into view. The evolution of the Olympic Games has continued, and this year will feature brand new events such as surfing. The dynamic and adaptable nature of the Games is inspirational, as all types of athletes are able to demonstrate their feats to the world. Cherry blossoms slowly begin to bloom at the sides, representing spring – a time of revival after the major disruption of the pandemic.

Curtain 6 Ex duris gloria

The central focus is a skateboarder – evoking another brand new event to be introduced to the current Games, and further emphasising the Olympics and their innovative evolution and inclusion of diversity to showcase human capacity in unique and entertaining sports. She rides in carrying the Olympic flame, a unique tradition symbolising the continuity between the ancient and modern Games. Cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and so, in solidarity, athletes come together through the difficulties of the pandemic and celebrate staying resilient through such a battle. “The important thing in life is not the triumph, but the fight; the essential thing is not to have won, but to have fought well” – the Olympic creed.

Hannah Wilkinson

Curtain 3 Fortis in arduis

The central focus is a powerful weightlifter. The Games have evolved, expanded, become more inclusive. Women have the right to perform at the highest level. New sports have been introduced; more innovative events to showcase the range of human ability. Two Japanese koi fish circle in the background behind the weightlifter, symbolising perseverance in the face of adversity, resisting the flow of water, the wave – the unplanned arrival of COVID-19. The koi serve as a reminder, behind our athletes, to work hard and persevere no matter what, in order to succeed.

Hannah Wilkinson