The seven-metre Boonji Spaceman sculpture, titled Lightning, will be permanently relocated to Elizabeth Quay when the City of Perth takes ownership of the precinct from DevelopmentWA next year.

The sculpture is currently displayed in Stirling Gardens, where its temporary location was chosen because of its proximity to Council House and its connection to Perth’s “City of Light” history. The name dates back to 1962, when Perth residents switched on lights in their homes as American astronaut John Glenn passed overhead during his orbital flight.

Elizabeth Quay was selected as the sculpture’s permanent location because of its riverside setting, close connection to the CBD and existing collection of public art.

The City of Perth accepted Lightning as a gift from US artist Brendan Murphy. The 1,365kg sculpture is made from carbon fibre and steel, with its transport from Miami to Perth taking about 12 months.