SA Power Networks hand artists $34,500 to create sculptures from recycled materials
HOUSEHOLDS and businesses across the state may be paying for SA Power Networks’ mistakes but the company has found money for three lucky artists — and a way to use its old Stobie poles.
HOUSEHOLDS and businesses across the state may be paying for SA Power Networks’ mistakes but the company has managed to find some money for three lucky artists — and a way to use its old Stobie poles.
Last night at the inaugural Helpmann Academy SA Power Networks Emerging Artist Commission, Steven Cybulka, Bianka Kennedy and Clancy Warner, each received commissions totalling $34,500 to create a public sculptures from recycled materials sourced from the company.
Warner said a decommissioned Stobie pole would feature in her sculpture inspired by the mythological Thunderbird, the creature of thunder and lightning.
“I often work with recycled materials so the commission seemed like a great opportunity,” Warner said.
“And the site is fantastic; as an emerging artist it’s brilliant to be able to make quite a prominent sculpture and have it displayed at the SA Power Networks site.”
Under the original idea, the commission, valued at $11,500, was for one South Australian artist to create a sculpture to be installed outside the SA Power Networks’ head office on Anzac Highway for at least three years, but in the end three prizes were handed out.
Helpmann Academy CEO Jane MacFarlane said that the standard of proposals was extremely high.
“The selection panel was so impressed with the quality of the proposals, the decision was made to offer it to three applicants,” she said.
“Helpmann is delighted to be able to offer this wonderful, high-profile opportunity to not one but three talented South Australian artists.”
The Helpmann Academy provides development opportunities, and grants, awards and mentorships, to SA higher education and tertiary students, and emerging artists.
SA Power Networks is one of Helpmann’s long-term project partners.