The work of contemporary Australian artists was recently placed front and centre at Westfield Doncaster – one of Melbourne’s preeminent shopping destinations – as part of their major redevelopment in 2020.
Featuring stunning large-scale works created by seven artists with differing art practices, the project was curated and produced by aMBUSH Gallery as part of their ongoing creative placemaking for the Scentre Group.
Throughout their entire shopping trip, visitors to the centre can now enjoy art as an integral part of their visit, from the moment they arrive in the carpark, and while they are shopping, dining and enjoying the entertainment and leisure offerings.
This world-class art includes: an extensive textural mural at the car park entry by Tristan Kerr; six metal shadow sphere and ellipse sculptures created by Matt Hill; a remarkable oversize steel boomerang at the entrance to the entertainment and leisure precinct made by the Young family; a colourful painted mural in the kids’ play area by Lucy Lucy; framed works from photographer Nicole Reed displayed along internal corridors; an impressive void sculpture created by Simon Leah and hung above the food court; and Jane Gillings’ whimsical ceiling installation of clouds and cockatoos in the cinema entry.
The commissioning of these permanent works are an important part of aMBUSH Gallery’s intent to create a new economy for artists and embed vibrant new art in public places across Australia and New Zealand.
Photography by Nicole Reed.
Tristan Kerr, Matt Hill, Lucy Lucy, Jane Gillings, Simon Leah, The Young Family, Nicole Reed