Tasmanian-born artist Brodie Neill unveils monumental public artwork, Opal, in the City of London

A major new permanent public artwork by Tasmanian-born, London-based artist and designer Brodie Neill has been installed at One Leadenhall in the City of London financial district.

Commissioned by Brookfield Properties for the tower’s reception atrium, Opal is a monumental site-specific bronze installation that functions both as a sculptural landmark and public seating space.

Standing seven metres tall and spanning six metres wide, the work is Neill’s largest artwork to date. Inspired by the asymmetrical geometry of gemstones and the historic colours of nearby Leadenhall Market, the installation combines architecture, sculpture and design within a striking civic setting.

The work comprises two interconnected elements — the soaring Opal sculpture and the accompanying Opal Bench — designed to encourage interaction and gathering within the atrium space.

Constructed around a concealed stainless-steel frame, the sculpture’s exterior is formed from almost 50 individually sculpted silicon bronze panels, assembled using more than 1,200 bolts and rivets. The richly textured surface was realised in collaboration with Derek Bailey Patina using more than 30 distinct chemical patination techniques involving salts, heat and natural acids, before being finished with hand-applied wax.

The 2.5-ton installation was engineered by Format Engineers and transported and assembled on site by art handling specialists Mtec.

Known internationally for his innovative and sustainable design practice, Brodie Neill’s work frequently explores the intersection of craftsmanship, material experimentation and public engagement. Opal continues this approach on an ambitious architectural scale, creating a dramatic new focal point within one of London’s newest commercial landmarks.