Artist sought to beautify Skipton

Published on 28 September 2021

Skipton garage couple.jpg

Artists across the country are invited to share their ideas for a new attraction that will celebrate the proud history and character of Skipton. Corangamite Shire Council has called for expressions of interest for the Skipton Public Art Project.

North Ward Councillor Nick Cole said the artwork would be a prominent feature of the town and as such should reflect the spirit of the community.

“Skipton has long been a productive area for wool, lamb, grain and cattle, and more recently canola. It is also home to a beautiful natural environment and wildlife including platypus, bandicoots and a wide array of bird species. These characteristics can inspire a piece of art that the townspeople can enjoy and that will attract visitors from further afield.

“With access from the Ballarat to Skipton Rail Trail and the new skatepark, a signature public artwork will be an added attraction to draw visitors to Skipton once regional travel reopens.”

Concepts could reference or consider:

  • The natural environment
  • Indigenous history
  • Historical aspects of the town and community
  • Sheep, Shearing and Woolsheds
  • Farming, past and current industrial aspects of the region

“Council expects the successful artist will build a relationship with the community and cooperate to create a work that celebrates the local heritage,” Cr Cole said.

“The Lismore water tower artwork which Council commissioned in 2018 has been successful in drawing in highway traffic and encouraging travellers to explore the town. This new artwork in Skipton will be another asset when it comes to our Volcanic Lakes and Plains tourism region in the Shire’s north.”

Cr Cole said submissions will be assessed by the previously established, Community Reference Group. “Three artists will be shortlisted and will have the opportunity to develop their concept and present it to the community.”

Expressions of interest close 5 pm, Friday 15 October. For more information, download the artist brief or contact Economic Development and Events Officer Tammy Young on tammy.young@corangamite.vic.gov.au or 5593 7100.

Over the past 10 years Council has installed public art pieces in Cobden, Lismore, Timboon, Terang and Noorat. These works are appreciated and valued by the local communities who assisted the Shire in their commissioning. This project will be funded by Global Power Generation (GPG) and Council.

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