Mildura Rural City Council has cemented a relationship with Wentworth Shire Council through the long-term loan of a sculpture from the Mildura Arts Centre collection.
A large steel sculpture by Australian artist Peter Blizzard, who passed away earlier this year, has been installed at the corner of Darling and Wharf Streets in Wentworth.
The sculpture titled Circum 3 x (1)+ was purchased by the Shire of Mildura from the 8th Sculpture Triennial in 1982 and took pride of place in front of the Shire offices for many years and then the Mildura Airport.
It was discarded by the former City Council Airport staff and send to scrap metal dealer, who put it aside until a public campaign in the media sparked public outcry and the sculptor was rescued by the Mildura Art Gallery staff and placed into storage.
Mildura Rural City’s portfolio councillor for the arts, Judi Harris, said the loan, initiated by Wentworth and District Community Bank Branch board member Sam Cross, solidified the arts relationship between the two Councils.
“This is a wonderful example of how we can work together with our colleagues over the river to provide a talking point for residents and visitors,” said Cr Harris.
“Art often challenges people in how they think, but ultimately it is made to be enjoyed, and public art can provide a tremendous boost to our well-being.
“We are really pleased to be able to bring this interesting sculpture from the Mildura Arts Centre collection out and into the community where it should be,” said Cr Harris.
Wentworth and District Community Bank Branch Board member Sam Cross said the loan from Mildura Rural City Council adds to the existing art pieces in the precinct.
“The Wentworth and District Community Bank Branch has had great pleasure being involved in getting the Peter Blizzard sculpture to Wentworth, and see it as another way the bank gives back to the community that supports it,” said Mr Cross .
A sign has been placed near the sculpture outlining the loan relationship and also includes a quote from the artist on how he created his sculptures.
Mildura has a number of public art sculptures located in the sculpture park around the Mildura Arts Centre and also on the median strip of Deakin Avenue.