22/11/02
Culture and the Arts Minister Sheila McHale, with Roleystone MLA Martin Whitely, today launched the implementation of Roe Highway's public art program at the site of one of the sculptures installed in the Roe Highway road reserve adjacent to Welshpool Road.
Ms McHale said the White Heron or 'Wet Landing' is the first of several fascinating art pieces to be installed along the highway's principal shared path network, on noise walls and at traffic bridges along the alignment.
"This incredible sculpture by artists Jon Tarry, Lorenna Grant and Joan Lyndon is made of steel and depicts a tree structure and three white heron flying towards the adjacent wetlands," she said.
"The sculptures' location maximises views for road users and people on the shared-use path network adjacent to the new highway."
The space encompasses two other elements, including etched images of birds that tell a story from Nyoongar artists' Joan Lyndon's childhood.
"More artworks will be installed progressively over the coming months and will include large scale murals, artworks applied to noisewalls, smaller sculptures, and interpretive signage that will tell the story of Aboriginal and European heritage through the area," Ms McHale said.
"The Main Roads public art program is a fine example of the Labor Government's commitment to community participation and public art.
"The program has been a truly collaborative effort between the artists, Government, the Metropolitan Nyoongar Council of Elders, the City of Gosnells and community members."
When finalised these artworks will provide a key visual element between Welshpool Road and Nicholson Road on the Roe Highway extension (Stages 4/5).
The public art program has been facilitated by Main Road's specially formulated Public Art Advisory Committee (PAAC), which comprises representatives from Government, local councils, Nyoongar elders and community members.
"This group has played an integral role in selecting the artworks and artists, and has ensured that the final artworks are representative of the natural and cultural heritage and landscape of the local environment," Ms McHale said.
"Imperative to the program's success has been the involvement of the Aboriginal community and the City of Gosnells in choosing the final artworks."
All of the artworks will be made of natural materials due to their ability to withstand the test of time and even improve with age, providing long-term enjoyment for the community and generations to come.
Sketches of the artworks can be viewed on the Main Roads website at http://www.mainroads.wa.gov.au/projects/html/roe/
Minister's Office - 9213 6900
