From Escalators to Art: Wynyard Station’s Iconic Timber Sculpture

Interloop

The Legacy of Sydney’s Timber Escalators

For decades, the timber escalators at Wynyard Station in Sydney carried thousands of commuters daily, becoming a familiar part of the city’s transport history. Installed in the 1930s, these wooden escalators were among the last of their kind in the world, remembered fondly for their warm tones, distinctive creaks, and place in the collective memory of Sydneysiders.

When they were finally retired to make way for modern escalators, many mourned the loss of these heritage icons. But instead of being discarded, the historic timbers were given new life in the form of a striking public artwork.

 

Interloop by Chris Fox

Sydney-based artist Chris Fox was commissioned to reimagine the timber treads from the old Wynyard escalators into an artwork that celebrated their cultural significance. The result was Interloop, a monumental suspended sculpture that now hangs above the station’s concourse.

Made from more than 1,200 preserved wooden escalator steps, Interloop twists and flows through the air in a giant ribbon-like form. The design captures both movement and memory, reflecting the endless cycle of commuters while honouring a piece of Sydney’s history.

 

A Sculpture That Connects Past and Present

Interloop

Interloop is more than just a sculpture—it is a conversation between the old and the new. While commuters now ride sleek, modern escalators, above them hangs a reminder of what once was. The artwork cleverly transforms functional objects into a lasting cultural landmark.

The flowing form of Interloop mirrors the rhythm of city life, where history and progress exist side by side. For locals, it stirs nostalgia. For visitors, it is a unique insight into Sydney’s identity and innovation.

 

Visiting Wynyard Station’s Artistic Landmark

Wynyard Station, located in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, is one of the busiest transport hubs in the city. Today, it is not only a place of transit but also a gallery for one of Sydney’s most captivating pieces of public art.

Commuters and tourists alike can view Interloop as they enter or exit the station, looking up to admire the suspended structure. The installation has quickly become a must-see for those interested in urban history, architecture, and contemporary art.

 

Why Interloop Matters

The transformation of the timber escalators into Interloop ensures that an important part of Sydney’s transport history continues to live on. Chris Fox’s creation is a reminder that heritage can be preserved in innovative ways, blending memory, design, and public space into something meaningful for future generations.

For more details about the artist, visit www.chrisfox.com.au

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