VIDEO projections in empty shopfronts and a laser-light installation at the Crater Lakes precinct are among a number of vibrant ideas recommended as part of a comprehensive public arts strategy for Mount Gambier.
Mount Gambier City Council’s operational committee has endorsed a draft report prepared by an independent consultant which presents a clear framework for public art for the next five years.
The Mount Gambier Public Arts Strategy recommends council facilitate a suite of public artworks integrated across three categories.
The report recommends reducing red tape and encouraging local artists to create installations in everyday locations, including murals, light or sound installations, video projections and orchestrated performances.
While the first category of public artworks will have minimal council involvement, the report proposes council invest in more ambitious high-impact or “beacon” projects.
“A lighting-artist could be commissioned to create a simple but dramatic programmable laser-light installation in or around the Blue Lake or Crater Lakes precinct,” the report states.
“When the project is not active, it is invisible, but when turned on it transforms the lakes.”
The third category encompasses events, festivals and conferences – funded by council, state or federal government or business and industry.
The public arts strategy takes into account “detailed discussions” with Riddoch Art Gallery staff.
Director Melentie Pandilovski said staff at the gallery would play a key role in implementing the strategy if it is endorsed.
Proposed short-term projects included shopfront video art, stencil art on walls and an unplugged Cave Gardens challenge – giving musicians an opportunity to perform acoustically at the bottom of the Cave Gardens, with an audience watching from above.
“Set up a simple, small platform that is a quick install and dismantle so the sound spirals up from the earth to the onlookers,” the report recommends.
“Commission Cave Garden performances from musicians and vocal performers and turn the limitations of the site into its strengths.
“Specify to performers the only instruments and/or equipment permitted are what can be carried down in one trip.”
Suggested long-term projects included a drone art competition and a biennial “land art” festival.
Council will consider the Mount Gambier Public Arts Strategy at its full meeting next Tuesday.
If approved, the council will allocate $12,000 from the remaining 2017/18 budget of the cultural development fund to develop the five year strategy.
