Reflections and Emmaus Cross
Two sculptural commissions at Emmaus College, Jimboomba QLD. Developed across a three-year programme, the works demonstrate how integrated sculpture can evolve over time to complete a spatial threshold at an educational campus.
Project Context
In 2021, Emmaus College commissioned MARLINSPIKE to develop a sculptural work for the entrance of Irbyana, a multi-purpose building at the centre of the campus.
A space in front of the building had been set aside for reflection and gathering. While reserved within the site planning, its architectural role was undefined. The commission focused on clarifying how this space could operate as a threshold within the campus. The project is characteristic of MARLINSPIKE's work with schools and educational campuses, where sculptural systems must meet safety, durability, and maintenance requirements alongside spatial and experiential goals.
Reflections was installed in June 2022. In late 2024, the college re-engaged MARLINSPIKE to extend the reflection space. The Emmaus Cross was integrated into the building facade and installed in October 2025.
Fly-over the sculpture installation site and Irbyana building
Reflections
Reflections is a seven-metre sequence of anodised aluminium forms rising and falling along a continuous datum of blue glass. The sculpture is elevated on minimal footings, maintaining openness within the reflection space.
The work is fully exposed to sun, rain, hail, and proximity to sporting fields. Anodised aluminium was selected to avoid paint degradation. Coloured glass provides tonal variation without surface coatings.
Edges and profiles were resolved for student safety. The work contains no sharp points and has required no maintenance since installation.
Emmaus Cross
The cross is positioned on the building facade, aligned with circulation, sightlines, and the reflection space below. Placement required coordination with the existing façade system and services.
Glass and aluminium maintain material continuity with Reflections. A concealed LED strip edge-lights the glass, with a dulled edge diffusing light after dark.
Integration
- Circulation: The works frame the primary entry path
- Safety: No sharp edges or entrapment risks
- Maintenance: Materials selected to age consistently without recoating
- Operational: Elevated installation maintains openness for gatherings
The two works now operate as a single threshold condition. Movement into Irbyana passes between them.
Outcome
The entrance to Irbyana is defined by cohesion rather than addition.
The three-year gap between commissions tested whether the original work could support extension. Because Reflections was resolved through material selection and spatial logic rather than stylistic signature, the second work integrated without compromise.
Interview
Interview with College Principal Jane Egan. With Jaco Roeloffs Sculptor
Project Information
Location: Emmaus College, Jimboomba QLD
Works: Reflections (June 2022), Emmaus Cross (October 2025)
Materials: Anodised aluminium, glass, integrated LED illumination
Role: Concept development, design, fabrication coordination, installation
Video of the "Reflections" Sculpture
