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The table, which is a limited-edition artwork, was donated to the school by the Arnott family, in celebration of the school’s recent centenary.
Speaking on behalf of the family, old Unionite Adrian Arnott, the son of the late Herby Arnott, who served the school as headmaster from the 1940s to the 1960s, said that the family desired to give the school a piece of art that is innovative, while being functional and attractive – a piece that would be around for the next 100 years. They commissioned the Johannesburg-based contemporary sculptor to create a THINK Table. The bronze sculpture that forms the main focus of the table at Union, spells ‘THINK’ from one side, while another perspective reveals little human silhouettes in different thinking poses.
“In today’s school environment, it’s not just the thought, but the quality and inventiveness of the thinking that counts,” said Arnott. “I’m an avid believer in critical thinking that pushes the boundaries to make a difference in the world and it is our sincerest hope that this piece of art will inspire the learners of Union High School to take ownership of ‘thinking that can change our world’.”
The THINK Table is inscribed with the well-known quote by the late Herby Arnott which reads as follows: “It is my fervent prayer that God will continue greatly to bless this school and all who enter it, and may whatsoever things that are pure and lovely and of good report here forever flourish and abound.”
The table was unveiled and presented to the school and its senior learners at a special ceremony on March 10. The ceremony was attended by Arnott, his sister, Hillary Botha and Olivier.
Union challenged their learners to be critical thinkers, to think collaboratively and to apply their knowledge and skills in unique and creative ways that have a positive impact on society.
