Christian Thompson Part of 2014 Melbourne Art Tram series
Melbourne’s streets are about to get a lot more colourful now that eight new Victorian artists have been chosen to have their work featured on trams all across the network.
It’s basically a moving exhibition that you can admire on your way to work – or feel part of as you roll into the city on one of the one-of-a-kind wonders.
Melbourne Art Trams was initiated last year as part of Melbourne Festival, and takes inspiration from Transport Art – a project that ran from 1978-1993 that saw 36 trams revamped by renowned Australian artists.
The eight artworks (chosen from 150 proposals) showcase a diverse range of themes that creatively reflect our state’s identity. James Cattell’s Melbourne’s Dreamscape captures the city’s gothic architectural landscape with imagery from the Manchester Unity Building, the State Library and the Shrine of Remembrance, and landscape painter Jeff Makin’s design takes commuters on routes 11 and 86 to the Victorian landscape with a rustic depiction of the Grampians region. Internationally acclaimed artist Christian Thompson’s tram (pictured) depicts a stunning, androgynous portrait, raising questions about sexuality and gender.
Other notable artists include Gabriella Possum Nungurrayi, daughter of Clifford Possum Tjapaltjarri, whose design comes from her painting ‘Grandmother’s Country’ which represents a meeting place along a river. Art Trams also presents a fantastic opportunity for Callum Croker – a year 12 student from Wesley College – who won the emerging artist tram with his artwork inspired by a wooden train set.
All eight trams will be on display in October during the Melbourne Festival, and you’ll get to vote for your favourite.