Rutherglen Silos - Birds of Seasons

"This mural series, titled Birds of Seasons, celebrates the local fauna that subtly guides the rhythm of life in the region. These small, beautiful birds have historically played a vital role in signalling the changing seasons to First Nations peoples and farmers alike.

Each silo in the series represents a specific season, with a bird chosen for its distinct colour palette, reflecting the essence of that time of year. Within the forms of these birds, intricate details reveal seasonal crops, golden vein and specific markings inspired by historic gold maps, and unique land patterns informed by stories from the local community. The combination of these elements intertwines past and present, nature and culture. To enhance their visual impact against the industrial backdrop of grey silos, the birds are depicted with vibrant, highly saturated colours. Modern geometric patterns within the birds provide strong contrast with soft rounded outlines, as the farmland borders against natures curves, creating dynamic compositions that are both contemporary and approachable.

Having the sun move across the four silos, gives the art a sense of place in each season. Surrounding each bird are native flowers that bloom in their respective seasons may hold cultural significance having been traditionally used by First Nations people for food, medicine, daily equipment or ornamental.

The suns colour is reflected in the birds, whether it be in the Golden Muscat Grapes or the orange dots that signified tertiary land in the gold maps of the past.

This mural series invites viewers to appreciate the intricate connections between wildlife, the land, and the seasonal cycles that define the region"

(Text from the artist)