Elemental by Samuel Kim 2026

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Look up from the streets of the city centre and spot the vibrant artworks of Asian-Australian artists on street banners to celebrate the Year of the Horse.

Using a tessellating pattern, this artwork explores the cyclical rhythms of the lunar calendar and the seasons in elements, along with our own lives.

The repeating, interlocking design reflects time's perpetual nature - how the years flow into each other in an eternal rotation. The horse, symbolising vitality and forward momentum, is reimagined as an abstract form portraying the interconnectedness of past, present and future.

The colour palette and design draw from the 5 elements cycling through each zodiac sign: fire, earth, metal, water and wood.

The heart at each centre represents the emotional core through all cycles - love and connection remaining constant as everything changes, a meditation on continuity and transformation.

About the artist

Samuel Kim is a Korean-Australian artist from Sydney's western suburbs who has spent many years developing his craft rooted in graffiti street art. His work is influenced by mathematics and philosophy and explores logical paradoxes and reality through illustrative compositions. He collaborates and exhibits widely, mentors young people through workshops and champions the arts in western Sydney.

Want more?

Download the Sydney Culture Walks app to see the locations of all banner galleries lanterns, installations and more in the Sydney Lunar Festival Walk.