10 December 2015
Open House Perth | Kings Square (2015)
Perth is undergoing a transformation.
The Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority (MRA), an operative of the WA State Government, has embarked on an extensive urban renewal program across the Perth Metropolitan Region, comprising of 13 projects across five key redevelopment areas.
One of the flagship projects on the agenda is Perth City Link, a $5.3billion* initiative to reconnect the CBD with Northbridge after more than a century of separation. The recent sinking of a section of the Fremantle train line and the new underground bus port to open in 2016, will reclaim more than 13 hectares of space for urban utility in the heart of Perth.
The new Kings Square development is strategically situated in the centre of this exciting new precinct between Perth Station, Yagan Square (due to be completed in mid-2017) and the Perth Arena. Developed by Leighton Properties, this ‘new home for business and culture’ will breathe life into the surrounding area with state-of-the-art commercial and residential buildings, cafes and shops.
Engaged by Leighton Properties in 2014 to develop a Public Art Strategy for Kings Square, Artsource has played a key role in facilitating the cultural and visual arts aspect of the square and surrounding precinct. There are now five public artworks that connect and enhance the open spaces within the square whilst paying homage to the site’s cultural and topographical history. These artworks include:
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An Untitled series of five underground mirror pods containing semi-precious WA stones and minerals, by Sydney-based artist Damien Butler;
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Connectus: a suspended light artwork exhibiting ochre hues reminiscent of WA’s natural landscape, created by Sydney-based artist Warren Langley;
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Irrational Geometrics: five colourful, digitally printed glass panels, a locally fabricated collaboration between Paris-based artist Pascal Dombis and architect Gil Percal.
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Koorden: an Aboriginal artwork composed of six historical figures cast in bronze, by Noongar artist Rod Garlett in collaboration with Perth-based artist Richie Kuhaupt and architect Fred Chaney; and
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Ripplescape: a landscape sculpture drawing inspiration from the site’s history as a freshwater swamp, by Queensland artist Nicole Voevodin-Cash;
The public was given the opportunity to explore Kings Square and view the installed artworks during Open House Perth 2015. Visitors enjoyed a 360° view of the precinct and adjacent sites of development from the eighth floor of the building at 10 Telethon Avenue. Owned and managed by DEXUS Property Group, it is one of three sustainably-built commercial buildings designed by Cox Architects.
Artsource consultants were available on site across the weekend to greet interested member’s of the public, provide information on the individual artworks and discuss the precinct’s development and public art strategy in more detail.
A public launch of the Kings Square artworks series is in the planning for the New Year. Check our upcoming artConnect, Facebook and website for further details as they become available.
For more information regarding the Kings Square artworks, or to learn more about the scope of public art projects coordinated by Artsource, visit artsource.net.au or call (08) 9335 8366 to speak with an Artsource consultant.
* public & private investment combined
Image: Penny Coss, Night Day, Perth International Airport Terminal 1, Glass Glazed Wall, 2015