Tribute to iron ore shipping selected by panel
The design for public artwork to be erected at the Wickham entry bay was selected by a community panel last week.
Artist team Brad Jackson and Peter Zappa will construct an anamorphic-style sculpture, the first of its kind in Australia.
The $170,000 project, funded by Rio Tinto and managed by Archipelago Arts, will sit next to the haul truck and train engine already at the site and represents the shipping phase of iron ore mining.
The artwork is a series of 24 steel column constructions more than five metres tall that will come into alignment when viewed at a certain focal point to form the image of a ship.
Jackson said the effect was of a black-and-white historical photograph superimposed on the landscape, with the ship seeming to sail on the hills.
He said delivering an artwork that was different to the usual could be challenging, but when done right it became well-known.
"The hope is that this would become one of those iconic artworks," he said.
By using a historical image in the design, Jackson said the viewer could be led to thoughts of Wickham's heritage, including the mining and grazing industries, and the Ngarluma people.
The artwork will be visible from the road and include shelters and information signs.
"The hope is that the artwork will form an endearing addition to the town for the locals, an artistic highlight within the Pilbara, and be a drawcard for people to come and see it," Jackson said.
Rio Tinto manager communities and partnerships coastal Lisa Taylor said the public art would add a sense of identity and history to the town and its residents.
"It will provide a point of interest and curiosity for tourists and visitors to the Shire of Roebourne," she said.
"Public artwork is integral to vibrancy and colour of a town, providing a sense of belonging, and Rio Tinto is proud to support these place-making projects."
