Local artists wanted for Parramatta development

Local artists are invited to submit an expression of interest to create a piece for the 8 Phillip St Parramatta precinct.

The search is on for a local artist to create a permanent artwork for the 8 Phillip Street development in Parramatta.

• Baulkham Hills cottage transformed to luxe modern living
• Why this business owner loves Auburn

The search is on for a local artist to create a permanent public artwork for the 8 Phillip Street Parramatta project.

Coronation Property and Authority Creative have opened expressions of interest to local artists to create a piece for the mixed-used development, which is due to be completed in 2022.

Once finished the 55-storey tower will include a 260-room QT Hotel, two restaurants, and 314 residential apartments.

Artworks for the site can include lighting treatments, sculpture and audible and digital installations.

The artwork is expected to be installed during the final stages of development at the pedestrian zone on the corner of Phillip St and Phillip Lane.

Coronation Property director Aras Labutis said art “provides an additional layer to any place”.

“You can have a nicely designed built space, but that doesn’t mean it engages people,” he said.

“Art is what makes people look up from their phones — because they are interested in what is around them. It can draw attention, and draw them in, even from a distance.”

The huge tower presents a unique canvas for local artists.

The precinct is set to be completed in 2022.

Authority Creative director Christopher Skyner said the opportunity to have their work permanently on display represented a “wonderful career progression, especially for an emerging artist”.

“That is what some artists have built whole careers on,” he said.

The expression of interest period closes on July 25 and three artists will be short-listed and supported through the concept development process later this year.

IN OTHER NEWS