Artist Statement:
OPEN SYMMETRY is continuum of my artistic expression, in which I pursue to connect my inspirations from nature towards the individual and our society.
What I wish to express with this sculpture is the creative force that is contained within the perfect circular form. In the sculpture’s incomplete state, it will allow the spectator to draw a multitude of different expressions from his/her visual experience. Traveling from all directions, the observer will approach the sculpture and then pass it, thus, adding to the illusion of movement within the piece.
The stainless steel elements on the upper part of the sculpture are still in the state of gestation, growing to form a complete circle. The active parts are energized as if they know that their objective is to finally form a complete circle. All of this activity represents human energy within a community and eventually all the elements become one. Additional stainless steel elements appear to be randomly tossed around the sculpture, moving up past the base to the pinnacle of the circle itself, as if magnetized or inspired.
The choice of the circle (universal symbol of harmony) is juxtaposed against the horizontal and vertical elements of the surroundings, as well as the movement of the streets and sidewalks. This situation of harmony, contrast, and movement creates emotion. These elements which constitute Open Symmetry should echo my intent, coming together in a resounding vibration and offer up a place for meditation and reflection.
Open Symmetry is inspired by Nambu’s Noble-Prize-winning concept of spontaneous symmetry breaking and relates it to our society as a whole. Quoting from UChicago News article (7/17/15) on Nambu’s passing:
In his Nobel Prize acceptance speech, Nambu explained how spontaneous symmetry breaking (SSB) is a special law of physics that applies to large numbers of subatomic particles. “SSB arises from a kind of group mentality, group psychology, among the constituents. “By analogy, Nambu noted that when a group gathers in a large, open area, people usually look in a variety of directions. But sometimes, when one person begins looking in one direction, those in the crowd do likewise. “That’s a broken symmetry,” Nambu said, “a behavior that subatomic particles also display”.
The sculpture Open Symmetry reflects this movement of the subatomic particles that Nambu speaks of, and in turn one’s personal life, and more outwardly, the community. All are connected as if in a chain, and contain the desire and persistence to move. Attempting to achieve the ultimate goal of oneness reflected in the perfect circular form.
Virginio Ferrari
Village of Niles Unveils New Public Art Sculpture: “Open Symmetry” by Internationally Acclaimed Artist Virginio Ferrari
The Village of Niles Public Arts and Culture Council is proud to announce the unveiling of Open Symmetry, a monumental sculpture by world-renowned artist Virginio Ferrari at Niles Village Hall Plaza. Village officials invite the public to join for the unveiling ceremony on Friday, October 24 at 10:00 a.m.
The sculpture stands as a centerpiece of Niles’ growing public art program—a reflection of the community’s commitment to creativity, connection, and cultural vibrancy. Located outside Village Hall (1000 Civic Center Drive, Niles), Open Symmetry is a striking circular form crafted in stainless steel. The piece symbolizes the pursuit of unity and harmony within the individual and society. As viewers move around the sculpture, its shifting perspectives evoke movement and transformation—a visual metaphor for human energy and collective growth.
“Public art plays an essential role in shaping the identity of our community,” said Mayor George D. Alpogianis. “Open Symmetry brings beauty, reflection, and inspiration to all who pass by. It represents our shared commitment to the arts and to fostering a welcoming and dynamic community environment here in Niles.”
Ferrari, an Italian-born sculptor with over 30 monumental works in Chicago and installations worldwide, draws inspiration from nature, science, and the interconnectedness of human experience. Open Symmetry was inspired in part by physicist Yoichiro Nambu’s Nobel Prize-winning theory of spontaneous symmetry breaking, which describes how patterns of movement and cooperation emerge from collective behavior—much like the life of a community.
“The active forms in Open Symmetry represent the energy and persistence within every community,” said Ferrari. “The sculpture reflects our natural desire for balance and oneness—a harmony that is both personal and universal.”
The Open Symmetry installation is funded through the Village’s Appearance and Arts Fund, a dedicated program that allocates a portion of non-residential building permit fees toward public art, ensuring that creative investment remains an economic and cultural driver in Niles.
About the Artist:
Virginio L. Ferrari (b. 1937, Verona, Italy) is an internationally acclaimed sculptor whose monumental works appear across the globe — from Chicago to Florence, from Shanghai to Los Angeles. Over his six-decade career, Ferrari has exhibited in more than 50 solo shows and 150 group exhibitions, integrating art into urban life and architecture. He was awarded the Officer–Order of Merit of the Italian Republic and has been recognized for his enduring contributions to the vitality of public spaces.
Commissioned by: The Niles Arts and Culture Council in collaboration with Mayor George D. Alpogianis and the Niles Board of Trustees
For more information, visit www.vniles.com or www.virginioferrari.com
Mitch Johnson, (847) 588-8008, maj@vniles.com
Release Date: Wednesday, October 22, 2025
