Reko Rennie

Remember Us is a major public artwork by Kamilaroi artist Reko Rennie, originally commissioned by the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia for the Loti Smorgon Sculpture Terrace. Known for his bold use of colour, geometry, and materials that merge contemporary urban culture with Aboriginal identity, Rennie’s practice challenges conventions of monumentality and remembrance.

Carved from marble and elevated on a bespoke plinth, Remember Us draws on the visual language of classical monuments to confront ongoing histories of injustice. The work honours the hundreds of Aboriginal people who have died in police custody - transforming the weight and permanence of stone into a site of reflection and accountability. Set against the Sydney Harbour skyline, the sculpture’s material and form create a powerful tension between beauty and grief, endurance and vulnerability.

To bring his vision to life, UAP was involved throughout every stage of the production process. Working closely with Rennie, our team undertook a Technical Design phase, which encompassed the design and engineering of a bespoke plinth which was fabricated to securely anchor the sculpture while subtly elevating it to encourage engagement and interaction. We managed the sourcing, cutting, processing, and finishing of the marble, ensuring every surface reflected the precision, strength, and integrity of Rennie’s intent.

Through this collaboration, Remember Us stands as both an artwork and a public memorial - a commanding presence that invites remembrance, dialogue, and collective reflection on Country.

Reko Rennie was supported by David Hagger for this commission.