After being nominated by Adam Knight Fine Art, Gabriella Possum Nungurrayi has won selection to transform a Melbourne tram into dynamic public artwork as part of Melbourne Festival’s 2014 visual arts program.
“Gabriella Possum Nungurrayi – eldest daughter of acclaimed artist Clifford Possum Tjapaltjarri, internationally renowned in her own right – Gabriella takes her tram design from her painting ‘Grandmother’s Country’ depicting an important meeting place.”
Eight artists were announced for 2014 Melbourne Art Trams. The winning works were selected from more than 150 proposals from artists across the State. They were chosen by a panel comprising, Hon Heidi Victoria MP Minster for the Arts; Clement Michel CEO Yarra Trams; Josephine Ridge Creative Director Melbourne Festival; and artist Michael Leunig whose work was featured on a tram in 1986 as part of the original Transporting Art program.
The other seven 2014 artists are: Jeff Makin, Callum Croker, Rone, Janine Daddo, Christian Thompson, James Cattell and Kristin Headlam.
Arts Victoria, Melbourne Festival and Yarra Trams are the creative partners behind this successful public art project that transforms Melbourne’s iconic trams into moving works of art travelling across the city.
Josephine Ridge, Creative Director of Melbourne Festival said: “The large number of submissions we received this year shows how much interest there is in the compelling idea of bringing art onto the streets in celebration of the Melbourne tram.
“Like last year, the quality and diversity of ideas has been outstanding and I congratulate the eight artists who have been selected.”
Clement Michel, Yarra Trams Chief Executive Officer said: “Trams are Melbourne icons and Yarra Trams is very proud to be part of our thriving arts community.
“The calibre of the artwork is sensational and we look forward to these mobile pieces of art being part of our tram network.”
The 2014 Melbourne Art Trams will feature in the visual arts program of this year’s Melbourne Festival, which runs from 10 to 26 October. They will remain on the tracks until April 2015.
A People’s Choice award will be announced following the release of all eight trams onto the network. The public will be able to vote for their favourite at: melbournefestival.com.au/ trams in October.
Gabriella’s Tram will be on the Tracks next Friday PM (October 3rd) and operate on routes 48 North Balwyn to Docklands and 109 Port Melbourne – Box Hill.
So if you see a Possum on the tracks make sure to check it out!
