Sassafras Art Walk

On this trail you will come across some artworks which have been installed as part of Yarra Ranges Council’s Outdoor Activation program and to celebrate a newly upgraded section of the RidgeWalk project. The artworks will be in place until September.

These artworks are installed on Wurundjeri Country and we acknowledge Elders past and present, and thank Wurundjeri Elders for their ongoing involvement in the RidgeWalk project.

RidgeWalk is a contemporary art experience that transforms our understanding of the natural and cultural landscapes of the Dandenong Ranges.  Occurring across a 39km walking track, including this section of newly upgraded trail, RidgeWalk invites us to explore the natural wonders, rich histories and cultural offerings of the region, through art and storytelling. 

RidgeWalk is funded by the Australian Government, the Victorian Government and Yarra Ranges Council. These temporary artworks have been supported through Yarra Ranges Council’s Outdoor Activation Program.

Meet the Artists

Peter McIlwain - Pathmarker Birds

A series of geometric abstracted birds will accompany your walk along this section of RidgeWalk. Made from digitally designed modular components, the bas relief works investigate a modernist approach that incorporates stylised depictions of birds that have resonance with many artistic traditions. The works function as way-finders or markers along the path. The markers, like the local birds, offer small bursts of colour dotted along the track, contrasting the cathedral-like space formed by tall trees, and intervening the long sightlines of the steep slope.

Peter McIlwain has had a varied career as a commercial artist, a musician and composer and an academic, teaching and researching in music. His work is recognized for its imaginative innovation, technical skill and knowledge. More recently he has focused on visual work and has gained a local profile working in public art settings.

Renate Crow – Tawny Frogmouth

The artist is drawn to the Tawny Frogmouth for its presence in this area as well as in backyards all over Australia, in both urban and rural areas. They are accessible and endearing to us with their ‘antics of pretending to be a branch’. Perched upon a storm-felled Mountain Ash tree, the steel-framed sculpture’s outer feathering comprises woven locally sourced natural fibres. Walkers of RidgeWalk will be able to carefully sit inside the Tawny Frogmouth’s ‘belly’: a tiny sanctuary to take a moment to be still.

Renate Crow is a socially-engaged artist who is continuously developing her relationship with local groups and schools through her sculptural-visual practice. Renate facilitates workshops and engages through events such as the Belgrave Lantern Parade. She is an avid beekeeper, gardener and cyclist. She aims to bring about deeper connectedness through her creative work.

Visiting

Parking is limited – some spots available on Mt Dandenong Tourist Rd, at the end of Grange Rd Olinda and very few on Mason Gve.

It is a short, but steep, walk up the track to see the artworks – walking shoes are recommended.

 

 

 

When

Location

On Sassafras Primary School Rd

Solitaire Track, Sassafras, 3787, View Map