Submission for Pakenham Pool EOI by Peter Mcilwain
Assessors are encouraged to use the website version of this EOI. See:
Site Research
The site has been visited on 4 occasions. Measurements of the fence have been taken by the artist as well as extensive photographs of the fence and surrounding areas. In addition photos of surrounding buildings like the Pakenham Library have also been taken. Also during the first EOI for this project the artist spoke with several community members as well as researching various local public artworks including "Mr Yakkerboo Meets Blue".
Description
Two visual design approaches are suggested:
The colours and patterns within these designs could be changed in response to public engagement. I have decades of experience in community engagement where I create frameworks for the public to contribute to an artistic outcome. For example I recently did a workshop for community members in which they made their own versions of my Pathmarker Birds. See: https://bentnail.art/pathmarker-birds
A similar creative process could be used during the concept development stage of the project.This would help embed the artwork within the community.
The general style as indicated by the images above, connects with the the theme of water and swimming. It is colourful and fun and should appeal across all demographic groups.
Materials
Three materials have been considered for this EOI:
* Eco Banner Mesh see: https://www.meshdirect.com.au/products/eco-banner-mesh/
* Perforated metal with sublimated printing see:
* Anodised metal with variable perforations see:
Eco Banner Mesh
Perforated Metal with Sublimated Printing (simulated)
Anodised Metal with variable perforations (simulated)
Anodised Metal with variable perforations (simulated)
Anodised Metal with variable perforations (simulated)
Anodised Metal with variable perforations (simulated)
These materials are selected so that the artwork can comply with CPTED requirements. As standard architectural claddings, they are robust, safe, require minimal maintenance and with the exception of banner mesh, very long lasting. In the case of banner mesh, while manufacturers have advised that it has a 3 year life-span, the much cheaper fabrication costs mean that it could be replaced on a regular basis either because of weathering or graffiti etc. This replacement could be built into the project. In the case of the two metal mesh approaches, both materials can have anti-graffiti coats applied to them.
During the design phase of the project, specific materials will be selected that comply with the council's sustainability requirements. In the case of banner mesh a version that can be recycled would be used. In the case of metal, either aluminium or steel can both be recycled.
One advantage of the metal mesh approach is that the fence would be responsive to different lighting conditions. This is important because a light dynamic artwork can retain interest over the long term whereas more fixed works can become "furniture" after a while.
Fabrication
Two fabrication companies have been approached for advice on materials, fabrication and costs. In relation to the banner mesh, Mesh Direct (https://www.meshdirect.com.au) have been very helpful. They are able to print and install the artwork and would be interested in a maintenance contract.
For the two metal approaches advice and preliminary costings have been sought from Custom Metal Imagery (https://www.custommetalimagery.com.au). They specialise in sublimation printing onto metal and are able to provide manufacturing and installation if the metal mesh approach is selected. If variable perforations are used there are a range of suppliers that could be contacted in order to get a cost efficient solution.
In both metal mesh approaches the fence would be clad in panels that have folded edges. This provides strength as well as enabling them to be bolted together. See diagram below:
Installation
Both Mesh Direct and Custom Metal Imagery can install the artwork. This service is typical of companies that work in the area. So installation will be handled professionally and in full compliance with OH&S and Public Liability requirements.
During the design phase of the project consideration of the support structure of the fence will be made. It may be possible that in the case of the metal mesh approaches that an additional support rail be included on the fence. Also it may be the case that the existing chain link mesh could be removed.
Note that the artist will oversee all aspects of fabrication and installation.
Community Consultation
The artist has a Working With Children Check and is very experienced in consultative creative processes. As discussed above, a framework can be made that can incorporate creative input from the community into the artwork. This makes the work more meaningful for the community. During the concept development phase of the project a workshop could be held in the Pakenham Library (next to the pool) for this purpose. After a specific design approach has been developed community consultation could occur through the council website and social media. Attention to the project could also be drawn via posters in the various community venues that are part of the PB Ronald Park precinct. These activities could be done in coordination with relevant council staff.
Budget and Timelines
While the costs of fabrication and installation will vary depending on the approach taken, the budget for these elements of the project will be capped at $12,000 leaving $3000 for artist fees, design and community consultation. This cost structure has been worked out in consultation with the companies that have been consulted while developing this EOI. While the renumeration for the artist is on the low side it is very important for the reputation of the artist that the best possible result is arrived at.
The turnaround times for fabrication and installation are approximately 2 weeks each - this leaves a buffer of one month should unexpected delays occur. Given this, the suggested timeline provided in the EOI documentation can be followed. The timeline as presented is:
• Appoint artist October 2022
• Concept development November 2022 - half artist fees to be paid.
• Final concept presentation December 2022 - second half of artist fees.
• Fabrication and installation January 2022 - fabrication and installation costs to be paid on delivery.
• Official Launch March 2023
• Concept development November 2022 - half artist fees to be paid.
• Final concept presentation December 2022 - second half of artist fees.
• Fabrication and installation January 2022 - fabrication and installation costs to be paid on delivery.
• Official Launch March 2023
Previous Work
All projects completed by the artist have been achieved according to stated timelines and budgets.
Pathmarker Birds for the Yarra Ranges Council :
For more information see: https://bentnail.art/pathmarker-birds
Healesville Parklet for the Yarra Ranges Council:
Bird Child Spirit for the Yarra Ranges Council:
For more information see: https://bentnail.art/bird-child-spirit