Have you ever paused to consider the hidden network of pipes and pumps that sustain our daily lives? Splash of Colour, a public art initiative by Water Corporation, sheds light on this often-overlooked infrastructure. Through collaboration with talented local artists they’re transforming ordinary water assets into a canvas of vibrant hues. Depicting the local community’s connection to water, native flora and fauna, and the intricate dance of the water cycle. If you’ve noticed a brick wastewater pump station, above-ground electrical cabinet or other small water structures in your local community, they may not look like much. But they are part of a vital network of assets that deliver drinking water and wastewater services to and from our varied sources across our state. Let’s take a closer look at the stories behind the artworks and how you can get involved. So next time you’re out and about, you can keep an eye out for these colourful gems and understand the importance behind them!
Art Through Collaboration
Established in 2017, Splash of Colour has brought life to over 80 assets across the state! From the Northern reaches of Broome to the Southern shores of Albany and everywhere in between. By partnering with talented local artists, the program not only beautifies utilitarian structures but also serves as a powerful reminder of our interconnectedness with water and the importance of conservation. Allowing us to better appreciate the often-overlooked infrastructure that ensures our access to clean drinking water and efficient wastewater management.
Local artists are hand picked to collaborate with schools and community groups and help design the final artwork, ensuring a local perspective is incorporated in the mural. Students have the opportunity to express their ideas about water and the environment, what it means to them and the importance of water conservation. With a free waterwise school incursion delivered by Water Corporation’s education team. Followed by a creative workshop with the artist, important lessons around Perth’s water supply and the value of water are taught in a hands-on, fun environment. Splash of Colour workshops add colour to the waterwise school program, which educates children about water sources, the water cycle, improving water literacy and inspiring the future sustainability leaders of tomorrow.
Matilda Bay Foreshore
An essential electrical cabinet along the Matilda Bay foreshore has been brought to life through the artistic use of shapes and colours by local artist, Jarni McGuire. The proud Whadjuk, Ballardong and Yuat woman drew inspiration for the piece from her life being born and raised on Noongar Boodja (country), her language, stories from her mob, and Noongar protocol. With the cabinet capturing Whadjuk Boodja, prior to settlement. Whadjuk people lived along coastlines, riverways and wetlands as there was an abundance of fresh water and food. The artwork allows the surrounding community to interact with traditional stories in modern day landscapes.
Wymond Park Mural
This was once a faded pump station. But you would never guess it after being transformed by local artist Graeme Miles Richards in collaboration with year 5 students from Hillcrest Primary School. Located on Hester Street in Bayswater the abstract mural features unique wetland fauna, designed to represent local waterways. Richards worked with the students who created drawings of local birds and animals to inspire the final design. The naturescape themed artwork features larger-than-life waterbirds. As well as a depiction of Hillcrest Primary’s resident southern boobook owl, who is painted on the wall facing the school.
Bridge Street Pump Station
This Splash of Colour artwork in Guildford was inspired by Noongar people’s deep cultural connection to the area. The mural is the result of deep community collaboration led by local Aboriginal Elders, men’s groups and community members. Including 16 workshops over more than 12 months. The end result is the complete transformation of a Guildford wastewater pump station into a vibrant and culturally significant public artwork. Featuring the Waugal (rainbow serpent), which wraps around the building. According to Noongar dreaming, the Waugal formed the Derbarl Yirrigan and Djarlgarro Beeliar (Swan and Canning rivers). As well as silhouettes of Moorditj Maaman (strong men). Reflecting the area’s significance as a ceremonial site and the importance of strong role models in Noongar society.
How to Get Involved
Keen to get involved with Splash of Colour? Well there’s several ways to do so just by reaching out through the email on their website. If you’ve seen a Water Corporation pump station in your local area that you think could do with a Splash of Colour, let them know. Or if you’re an artist who would love to contribute, or even a primary school looking to be involved in the Splash of Colour program. They’re always looking for more ways to be involved with the local community!
Top Artwork Credit: Graeme Miles Richards
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