Hydra
Inspired by the graceful movement of aquatic plants, Hydra’s verdigris bronze fronds stretch skyward, creating sweeping curves and reflections. This slender sculpture comes alive at night, casting mysterious shadows and inviting personal poetry to adorn its elegant branches.
Variations & finishes
Hydra is available in three sizes with larger sizes available on request. This sculpture can be lit with a warm white LED.
Available standard size
Hydra comes in 87 inches, 108 inches, 118 inches. Other sizes available on request.
Available finishes
Bronze, Bronze and Stainless Steel, Bronze and Gold Leaf, Stainless Steel
Example scale
87 inches, 108 inches, 118 inches
(Model scale: 71 inches)
Design details
“You have all been fantastic at David Harber, from improving, at our request, the lead time at our request to storing the sculpture because we weren’t ready! The guys who visited the site were very polite, clean and tidy. They waited around for a considerable amount of time for the client to approve the facing of the sculpture.”
Kate Gould Gardens
Hydra is inspired by the gentle swaying and vertical movement of aquatic plants. Individual fronds interact with one another to create sweeping curves, shadows and reflections.
Hydra suits design projects of all sizes. Here, the team are working to create a bespoke large-scale Hydra for Denver Water Headquarters in Colorado.
The opportunity to personalize this reed sculpture by including words of wisdom on two of the fronds adds an atmosphere of intimacy.
The sculpture comes with a discreet single LED uplighter for after dark, highlighting Hydra’s 3D design while allowing the twisting fronts to cast myriad shadows.
As a bronze sculpture, Hydra is finished with our iconic verdigris patina that harmonizes beautifully with the textural greens of the garden.
Product information
Hydra comes with its own base plate that needs to be bolted down onto a smooth and level foundation pad which should be sited below ground level. This allows room for an electric cable and for the base of the sculpture to be covered in gravel or planting, giving the illusion that it is growing out of the ground. The piece can also sit above the water with the base plate adjusted accordingly to meet the specific setup.
The piece should not be placed in positions prone to strong crosswinds, as over time significant movement could weaken the base of the sculpture. A stainless-steel Hydra should be placed in dappled or full shade to avoid any potential scorching that the slightly irregular reflection may cause to the surrounding area.
Shipping and installation quotes can be obtained and charged at cost.
The bronze that Hydra is made from will exhibit some natural weathering with age; however, periodic cleaning will help preserve its beauty. We recommend cleaning it at least once a year with only warm water and a soft cloth to remove any detritus. The stainless-steel version should firstly be washed with a hose to remove any dust or sand particles, and then cleaned and polished with glass cleaner. Use of any abrasive cleaner will damage the finish and must be avoided. Maintenance instructions will be issued on installation.
Abstract contemporary sculpture redefines spaces with artwork that focuses on form, material, and spatial relationships rather than realistic representation. Abstract outdoor sculpture can offer immersive experiences that stimulate emotional, intellectual, and sensory responses – a key characteristic of abstract expressionism – transforming green spaces into dynamic and interactive cultural landscapes. Abstract sculpture is an umbrella term that refers to both organic and geometric sculpture.
Abstract sculpture incorporates diverse materials, as this art form blurs the boundaries between art, architecture, and environment. Metals such as stainless steel, bronze or copper are often used as well as stone. Steel sculptures can be used as contemporary art in gardens, and the versatile metal can be shaped into beguiling shapes, both geometric and organic, and polished to give the metal a reflective quality. Organic abstract art made with bronze or oxidized steel develops a natural patina over time, which introduces a sense of maturity and timelessness into the garden. A reed sculpture like Hydra is a beautiful example of organic sculpture that has textural verdigris patina that works in harmony with the natural world around it.
Yes, abstract metal art makes for unique garden art and home decor. Indoors, abstract sculptures suit considered interior designs that function as realms of inspiration as well as homely living spaces. Outside, a terrace, courtyard or larger garden can feel elevated with a geometric or organic design that echoes the surrounding environment or architecture.
Whether you have a minimalist, contemporary home or a more eclectic style, modern art sculptures demonstrating beautiful design and craftsmanship will elevate your interior and exterior design. Wall-mounted sculpture, such as David Harber’s Turbine or Aegis, is a unique alternative to wall art pieces and a striking solution for a blank wall in a living room. Whereas modern abstract sculptures, like Torus or Orbis, are particularly striking when used as a focal point in outdoor settings. Light sculpture to add interest and drama at night.
The magic of conversation
Whether you’ve decided on a piece or you just want to sound out an aspect of our work, please get in touch with our team to discuss your needs.