Many locals never thought they would see a tram through the South East, but that day came last week when a tram was transported and installed in Guys Hill to live it’s life now as an art gallery.
Artist Karen Alsop of Story Art announced the arrival of her historic W5-series tram, number 772, last Thursday 19 December at her Guys Hill studio.
As part of the VicTrack Reinventing Trams program, this iconic tram, which once transported thousands of Melburnians across the city, will be repurposed into a unique and interactive art gallery space, the Story Art Gallery.
“Victoria’s retired trams have transported millions of people and are an integral part of our heritage,” said Alsop.
“I am honored to preserve Tram 772’s legacy while transforming it into a space where history, creativity, and innovation converge.”
Transported by truck and carefully placed by crane onto authentic Puffing Billy railway sleepers, work will commence immediately throughout the Christmas period to transform the tram into a gallery.
The plans are set for an opening to the public by late January 2025.
The Story Art Gallery will showcase Karen Alsop’s photographic art, mixed media pieces, ceramics, and cutting-edge augmented reality work.
Karen Alsop’s artistry often incorporates collaborations with local wildlife rescuers, bringing stories of rescued animals to life.
Tram 772 was acquired through the VicTrack Reinventing Trams program, which aims to bring old trams from disrepair by repurposing them for residents and businesses.
The program received over 1,500 applications for 134 available trams.
For updates on the gallery’s opening and more information, visit storyart.com or follow Karen Alsop’s Story Art on social media.
