Artist Concept

Public Artwork for Development at 140 Morrison Road Midland.
 

This artwork has been inspired by the ‘flow’ and flux’ of the Swan River as the ‘artery’ symbolizing the rhythm of energy coursing through Midland and the Swan Valley.
The Swan River – ‘Derbarl Yerrigan’- has been the life-force and basis of existence of all the life forms enveloped in its path since time immemorial- from the earliest flora and fauna, through indigenous habitation of the area and continuing on through European Settlement to the present day, when the area has become a vital node point at the juncture of the City and the Hills.

The optical, pulsing imagery of the stainless steel ‘bands’, interacting with the undulating river bank of naturally patinated or coloured Corten Steel, has been shaped to echo the meandering course of the Swan River as it flows silently, unseen, nearby.

The sculptures are intended to visually ‘flicker’ across the eye of the observer creating an illusion of movement, even though the panels are fixed.

This optical effect will be further enhanced by the gradual movement of light, shadow and colour throughout the day. The outline forms of the panels illustrate a visual development of a single concept into two complimentary ‘handed’ expressions. Each image is the positive or negative of the other.

Night lighting offers a further exciting potential to exploit shape shadow and colour.

Charles Smith
& Joan Walsh-Smith

28th November 2013.