Mosaic Artworks Unveiled on The Esplanade

The mosaics were created by well-respected artist Danuta Scholtz von Lorenz and then embedded into the footpath along the length of The Esplanade.

Mayor Russell Aubrey said the artworks were part of the City of Melville’s Arts and Culture policy.

“These mosaics have been installed to interpret, commemorate and reflect the area. The City of Melville has a long-term commitment to beautifying the environment by supporting and commissioning public art,” he said.

“The City hopes the artworks inspire a sense of place in residents and provide a deeper understanding of the history of The Esplanade and Canning River area.”

Four of the five mosaics are now installed at: the Canning Bridge Rowing Club, Rookwood Street Jetty, Deepwater Point and Mount Henry Bridge. A remaining artwork is yet to be installed between Central Ave and Queens Road on The Esplanade.

Each artwork consists of one large main mosaic (1.5m x 2m) plus six smaller, (40cm x 40cm) mosaics. All the artworks were created with ceramic tiles in vibrant colours.

“The artworks reflect the history of the installation site, from: turn of the century rowing clubs; early modes of transport; ferries; aboriginal camping areas; and local flora and fauna,” the Mayor said.

“The focus has been on documenting both the past and present use of each site, including Aboriginal, European and present day connections to the area.

“For instance, the new mosaic at Deepwater Point commemorates the area as both an historic and present day place of celebration and feasting. The main mosaic depicts a picnic rug laid out for lunch. The smaller tiles in the series show: a scout group around a fire; early settlers; picnics; and the café.

“The Mount Henry Bridge mosaic commemorates modes of travel in Melville. The largest mosaic is a landscape view of the bridge, with smaller mosaics depicting ferry routes, a horse and cart, lorry and the new train system.

“The feedback we have received from passing residents has been very positive indeed. We encourage all residents to take a look at these evocative and beautiful artworks.”