The PTP Alliance is calling on South Australian artists to submit an Expression of Interest (EoI), for sculpture and mural artwork, for the public realm of the new Torrens Road bridge. We encourage applications from First Nations Kaurna artists/artist teams.

EoI phase opened on the 19 January 2022 and closed on the 9 February 2022.

Artwork brief 1 - Murals on eastern and western bridge walls

As part of the Ovingham Level Crossing Removal project, two large scale murals are being commissioned for the two concrete abutment walls (east and west walls) beneath the new Torrens Road bridge. We seek artists/artist teams to loosely interpret the local Kaurna Dreaming story which features a Tindo ‘sun’ and a Kakirra ‘moon’, in their own style.

For Artwork brief 1 click here

Artwork brief 2 - Bridge pier murals

As part of the Ovingham Level Crossing Removal project, 12 murals are being commissioned for the 12 concrete piers which will support the new Torrens Road bridge. The 12 piers will be allocated in sets of four and give artists/artist teams an opportunity to create designs that tie in with the new Torrens Road bridge, landscaping, and local area.

For Artwork brief 2 click here

Artwork brief 3 - Freestanding art

Four freestanding art installations, Mankamankarana ‘Seven Sisters’, Tinninyarana ‘Three Hunters’, ‘Mosaic Fire Pit’ and ‘Weaving Woman’ will provide opportunities for artists/artist teams to create designs that interpret (in their own style) the Kaurna Dreaming Story for the local area, the new Torrens Road bridge, and the surrounding landscaping design.

For Artwork brief 3 click here

FAQs

I am a non-First Nations person; can I still apply?

Yes, all South Australian artists are welcome to apply. Though we do particularly encourage applications from First Nations artists.

The artist briefs say the art needs to be inspired by the Kaurna Dreaming story for the local area. What if I am a non-First Nations person? I am worried about cultural appropriation.

This direction came from the Ovingham Kaurna Reference Group members. The aim is for you to be inspired by the Kaurna Dreaming Story via themes/an element, but to paint and create in your own style that is not mimicking First Nations art.

To date, the Ovingham Kaurna Reference Group has worked closely with the landscape architects so that the bridge and landscape design reflect strong Kaurna elements from the local Kaurna Dreaming Story. The bridge structure has Dreaming Story constellations, Kaurna history is shown on the bridge throw screens, and carefully selected Bush Tucker species are included in the landscaping palette.

Due to strong Kaurna elements reflected in the bridge and surrounds, the Ovingham Kaurna Reference Group want to curate the themes of the public art, so that there is a connection between the art and the Kaurna Dreaming Story elements that are already included in the landscaping and bridge design. This is why the direction to be 'inspired' by the Kaurna Dreaming Story is important to the Ovingham Kaurna Reference Group and the PTP Alliance.

If successful, artists/artist teams selected to undertake a concept design will be recounted the Kaurna Dreaming Story by Kaurna Elders from the Ovingham Kaurna Reference Group.

If you have any further concerns about the cultural aspects of this brief, please contact the Community Engagement Team.

Are Kaurna people on the selection panel?

Yes, we will have four Kaurna panel members, of approximately eight to 10 total panelists. We are still in the process of finalising exact numbers of panelists.

Can I bring my own cultural background and themes into the artwork?

Yes, absolutely. We encourage you to paint using your own style, imagination, experiences and cultural background. We do however ask that the theme of the work reflects or complements the Kaurna Dreaming Story, as specified in each Artwork Brief.

Can I apply for more than one Artwork Brief?

Yes, you definitely can. Just ensure you specify which specific artwork briefs/pieces you are interested in applying for in your application.

I don't have any experience creating public murals or sculptures, can I still apply?

We are looking for artists who have experience in creating public art pieces. If you are unsure whether this is you, or would like to discuss your specific situation, please contact the Community Engagement Team.

I can't paint my mural in the dedicated installation period, can I still apply?

Unfortunately, this is non-negotiable. You need to be able to commence and complete the mural in the dedicated painting period.

If you have any further questions about the EoI process, or would like to speak to a member of the project team, please contact the community engagement team at the details below.

Email: ovinghamcrossing@ptpa.com.au

Phone: 1300 613 533