Public art contributes to our understanding and appreciation of our cultural and natural heritage, enhancing our built environment and creating more meaningful public spaces.
This is the view of public artists Glenn Romanis and Mark Trinham from Romanis Trinham Collaborations PL and was key when creating a masterpiece for Bisinella Developments’ new Seaside Estate.
The two-year artwork project that commenced in 2020 was built with the intention of connecting people with the area.
When developing the artwork, it was particularly important to bring in coastal elements such as the Banjo Shark, Aka the Fiddler Ray, which are local to the area and perfectly communicate Seaside Estates’ beachy lifestyle.
Mark said the pier pylons to make the sculpture were taken directly from the Port Phillip Bay region and formed a significant component of the artwork. Using materials that are environmentally friendly but also durable and long lasting was another key aspect of the build.
“The poles were installed 150-plus years ago in the bay, made out of old growth forest timber, and we were able to carve symbolic markings on them representing seagrass and sea animals that are local to the area,” Mark said.
“We predominantly used stone, reclaimed timber and steel and we tried to put minimal amounts of paints or coatings to keep its natural heritage.”
The connection to, and appreciation of, the natural environment is the key message that Mark and Glenn want people to take away.
“It’s essentially like conservation education,” Mark said.
“Bringing the natural history, flora and fauna to people’s attention and appreciating the landscape.”
In addition, Mark said to create this artwork took a lot of collaboration between Mexted Rimmer Landscape Architects, local council, Cardno and Yttrup Engineering, Ausscapes Landscapers, Simply Forged Blacksmith and contractors to bring the artwork to life.
Bisinella Director Richard Bisinella said the artwork provided a focal point for the future community of Seaside Estate.
“The artists have captured the essence of the local natural environment providing a positive experience for residents and visitors,” Richard said.
Mark and Glenn have been creating large-scale public artwork for 27 years, with a particular focus on nature playground sculptures.