By Shelby Brooks and Tyler Wright
A sculpture showcasing Cockatoo’s history caused a stir among locals ahead of its official unveiling in June.
Negative Curl was commissioned by Cardinia Shire Council as part of the Cardinia Public Art program to celebrate the history of the Cockatoo community.
But concerns for the sculpture’s location and design were raised by locals, many who thought the money for the project would have been better placed elsewhere.
The design incorporates original photos in what looks like a roll of negative camera film.
The artist is New Zealand born James Voller, who has been based in Melbourne since 2012.
“The artwork celebrates the wonderful history of the Cockatoo community incorporating original photos in its design,” a spokesperson for Cardinia Shire Council said.
Cockatoo resident Chris Thompson told the Gazette the artwork could have been placed in a more “prominent spot”.
“I’d like to see more art around town – it just would have been nice for it to be put somewhere where people will actually see it,” Chris said.
A local artist, who wished not to be named, said she thought it was “fabulous” to see the council investing in artwork for Cockatoo but would have liked to see a Cockatoo artist commissioned for the piece.
“Cockatoo has some incredibly talented local artists and what would make any artwork even more spectacular is if one of our very own were given the opportunity,” she said.
“As for the location, it doesn’t have any close footpaths and unfortunately you must drive through several large potholes to visit the artwork.
“Having artwork in Cockatoo can give the community a chance to increase tourism and also give the locals a place to gather. Hopefully the council have further plans to support the artwork and to maximise the benefits of its current location.”
