Need more proof that Melbourne is one of the best cities for culture right now? The public artworks set to adorn the new stations that make up the Metro Tunnel have been unveiled, and they’re pretty darn spectacular.
The permanent works have been created by some of Australia’s leading artists, who were chosen by an expert panel comprising key figures from Victoria’s creative industries. The line-up of artists includes Abdul Abdullah (Arden Station), Patricia Piccinini (Parkville Station), Danie Mellor (State Library Station) and Raafat Ishak (Anzac Station).
The large-scale creations range from two giant aluminium hands reaching out for one another, to eight-metre-high etched glass panels starring historical photographic portraits of Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung women. Other designs include a colourful abstract piece that celebrates the cultural landmarks of the St Kilda Road precinct, and a ceramic tile installation that will (hopefully) provide a moment of calm during your hectic commute.
Each of the artists collaborated with the architects to ensure their works would complement the design of the individual stations. That means the particular location of the pieces will vary – some appearing above ground at the entrance, others found down below on the platforms.
Celebrated Victorian First Nations artist Maree Clarke will also have her vast floor mosaics featured in all of the new stations. ‘Tracks’ is a collection of 35 footprints of native animals (living and extinct) found in different natural habitats across Kulin Nation Country.
Arden Station and Parkville Station will be the first to have the public artworks installed in early 2024, but we’ll have to wait until the entire Metro Tunnel network opens in 2025 to see the others – which it is on track to do, one year ahead of schedule.
Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for more city news, straight to your inbox.