New public artwork swims into town

A NEW sculpture has taken up residence at the entrance to Rippleside Park.

Conceived and developed by artists and designers Geoff Trensky and Tony Gilevski, the abstract fish sculpture has been erected to serve as an arrival point, marking the start of a scenic drive into central Geelong.

The 3.2-metre by 3.5-metre public artwork, named ‘Momenta’, forms part of the Arrivals Indicators project, a revitalisation initiative that aims to improve both the streetscapes at several key entrances to Geelong’s CBD and navigation around the region.

The project is being delivered as part of the $380 million Geelong City Deal.

In a post on LinkedIn, Trensky said the sculpture is inspired by the rhythmic ebb and flow of Corio Bay.

The structure is steel fabricated, finished with an industrial paint system and uses large geometric plates to both contrast and reflect the natural landscape.

“The sculpture, rising organically from the ground at Rippleside, captures the dynamic energy of our coastal landscape,” Trensky said.

“Its geometric plates create a mesmerising play of light and shadow, symbolising the eternal dance between tide and time.

“What makes this piece truly special is its thoughtful placement where creeks meet the sea, near vital fish breeding grounds – a nod to the area’s rich ecological and cultural significance.”

Trensky, and his work through Melbourne-based design firm Perimeter Design, will be familiar to those who frequent the shared user path between the Surf Coast Highway and Reserve Road in Grovedale.

A series of four magpie sculptures, titled ‘Echoes of Magpie’, were installed along the path last year as part of the South Geelong to Waurn Ponds rail duplication project.

Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said he wanted Geelong to be renowned for its public art.

“I’ll be doing whatever I can to promote art in all of its forms during my term as mayor,” he said.

“I’m absolutely passionate about pushing for more public art across our city and in all our new developments.

“A clever and creative city needs art and culture to inspire and stimulate people, and more public art will help make Geelong a great place to live, work, play and visit.”

The Geelong City Deal is a 10-year plan that brings together all three levels of government to revitalise central Geelong, develop key infrastructure – such as the project’s centrepiece, the Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre – and boost the region’s visitor economy.