The Federation Bells were commissioned by the Melbourne International Festival of the Arts on behalf of Arts Victoria. They were conceived as a permanent sculptural installation within Birrarung Marr to celebrate the centenary of Federation.

Designed in collaboration with sculptor Anton Hassell, acoustic designer Neil McLachlan and lighting designer Nathan Thompson, the installation investigates a new way of seeing and experiencing bells.

Twenty six small bells supported on tall slender columns form a unifying background grid to the field as a whole. Randomly placed within this grid are 13 large bells. These are the dominant elements within the composition, and their free layout and varying heights reflect their sculptural quality.

There is an intentional delicacy to the installation which provides a counterpoint to the robust solidity of the city beyond.