The Australia–Cyprus Achievement Award is not simply a trophy – it is a sculptural statement of identity, gratitude and aspiration.
Created exclusively for the Cyprus Community of NSW by renowned Brazilian metal artist Italo Dos Santos, each piece is individually handcrafted using natural materials chosen for their symbolic power.
Iron, copper and gold – A narrative in metal
At its core, the sculpture is forged from iron – a material representing strength, endurance and resilience. Iron is shaped through fire and force, echoing the trials and perseverance that define both migrant journeys and community building.
Interwoven with the iron is copper – deliberately incorporated to symbolise Cyprus. For thousands of years, Cyprus has been synonymous with copper; indeed, the island’s very name is historically linked to the metal. By forging copper into the piece, the artist embeds Cyprus itself into the structure of the award.
The sculpture is then plated in gold – signifying excellence, honour and achievement. Gold elevates the form, transforming strength and heritage into recognition and celebration.
Together, iron, copper and gold tell a story: resilience, identity and excellence.
The olive branch – A universal emblem
The sculptural form depicts the graceful branches of the olive tree, drawn from Olea europaea. Across ancient Mediterranean civilisations, the olive branch symbolised peace, unity and honour. It crowned victors, marked reconciliation and represented harmony between peoples.
For Cyprus – a land long celebrated for its agriculture and olive groves – the symbol carries deep cultural resonance. For Australia, it speaks to contribution, collaboration and shared prosperity.
The upward-reaching branches embody aspiration; the intertwined metals reflect unity.
Grounded in yellow burl wood
The sculpture rests on a base crafted from yellow burl wood – a rare and naturally patterned timber known for its intricate grain and organic character. No two burl formations are identical, making each base entirely unique.
The wood has been carefully shaped and polished to reflect resilience and reflection – grounding the strength of forged metal in the warmth of nature.
It anchors the sculpture in earth while the olive branches reach toward possibility.
A commission of purpose
Specifically commissioned by the Cyprus Community of NSW, the award was designed to embody both Cyprus and Australia – heritage and future – strength and peace.
These are not manufactured trophies. They are individually forged works of art, created by hand, carrying story in every material.
As Italo Dos Santos explains: “Through my work, I aim not only to shape metal, but to give life to symbols, stories and emotions that endure.”
The artist will be present at the Awards Ceremony on Thursday, 26 February, at the Chau Chak Wing Museum, within the University of Sydney.
Bookings are essential, with limited spaces remaining. Registrations can be made at:
www.thecyprusclub.org.au
