Residents wanted for Skipton Public Art Project

Published on 09 July 2021

It is Skipton’s turn for a vibrant new piece of public art and Corangamite Shire is inviting residents to get involved.

Expressions of Interest to join a Community Reference Group to guide the Skipton Public Art Project are now open.

Corangamite Shire Manager Growth and Engagement Rory Neeson said the group’s role would be to provide local advice and help select the artist.

“This project is different to the Jimmi Buscombe flood gauge art on the bridge over Mount Emu Creek in Skipton,” Mr Neeson said.

“We are looking for people to help select a site and guide the look and feel of the project.

“The group will discuss potential themes for the artist to explore and provide local knowledge.”

“We have a blank canvas and a budget of up to $50,000 thanks to GPG, the company involved in the construction of the Berrybank Wind Farm,” Mr Neeson said.

“It could be a large-scale painting or a series of smaller sculptures, whatever most suits the Skipton community.”

Regional Arts Victoria representative Jo Grant will assist the group and members will need to attend four meetings over the course of the project.

Council will invite Expressions of Interest from artists once the Reference Group has formed. Three artists will be shortlisted by the group, who will work with these three artists to narrow down to a final concept.

The project should be completed by June 2022.

North Ward Councillor Nick Cole said public art had the potential to really add value to communities.

“Council’s last public art project at the Lismore water tower really transformed that site and has attracted visitors from across the region,” Cr Cole said.

“I look forward to seeing what the artist and the Skipton community come up with.”

Residents can find out more and submit an Expression of Interest online at www.corangamite.vic.gov.au/SkiptonArt until Friday 30 July.