Bridging nature and humanity in striking sculptural form
Magnus RINN Sculpture of Ireland Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka
Renowned Irish sculptor Joseph Walsh created Magnus RINN, a 6m tall outdoor sculpture for the Ireland Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan. Symbolising the enduring bond between humanity and nature, it reflects the passage of time and natural cycles.
Arup, with over 13 years of collaboration with Joseph Walsh Studio (JWS), provided critical structural engineering services for the design and installation of the sculpture.
In Japan, sculptures exceeding 4m in height require a structural permit application, involving the submission of drawings, structural calculations and material certification documents. Our Tokyo office, in collaboration with JWS and our London and Dublin offices, adapted the original Eurocode-based design to meet Japan’s Building Standards Act, managed the permit process and oversaw documentation and on-site supervision.
Magnus RINN showcases innovative engineering and artistry, blending bronze, wood and gold leaf in a striking form. By navigating Japan’s strict regulations, we enabled this temporary installation to shine at Expo 2025, fostering cultural exchange and highlighting technical excellence.
Magnus RINN showcases innovative engineering and artistry. © Peter Flynn
Magnus RINN is a circular form, transitioning from bronze to wood and finished in a gold gilding. © Norman Wilcox Geissen
A successful collaboration with Joseph Walsh Studio.
Overcoming material challenges
One of the key challenges was the materials used in the artwork. The ring-shaped sculpture transitions from bronze to wood, seamlessly blending different materials and accented with gold leaf. It consists of a concrete foundation, a mild steel frame clad in artisan bronze for the lower half and laminated timber for the upper half.
In accordance with Japan’s Building Standards Act, structural components typically require materials certified under the Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS). As the sculpture was planned to be procured and fabricated in Europe before being transported to Japan, it initially did not meet these requirements.
To address this, we engaged in detailed negotiations with regulatory authorities, providing explanations of the materials based on Eurocode standards. Considering the installation’s temporary nature, an exception was granted, allowing the project to progress as planned.
Magnus RINN is showcased within a specially designed landscape, a collaborative effort between JWS and landscape architect Hiroyuki Tsujii.
Top image © Kazuo Fukunaga
Magnus RINN: A circular bronze-to-wood form, symbolizing time, nature’s cycles, and human touch.
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