Ocean-Inspired Public Art Sculptures in East Gippsland
Transforming Historic Marine Buoys Into Coastal Public Art
Commissioned by East Gippsland Shire Council, these two retired marine buoys were given a new lease on life as colourful painted sculptures for a waterside location. After years of use, the buoys carried their own history within the East Gippsland region. Before painting could begin, they underwent extensive preparation at the shipping yard, including sanding, stripping and repainting.
The project presented an opportunity to transform these substantial maritime objects into distinctive pieces of public art, preserving their connection to the area's coastal history while giving them a new purpose in the community.
Celebrating East Gippsland's Coastal Flora and Fauna
Working with the council, I developed a flowing visual narrative incorporating important local flora and fauna. Ocean-inspired colours, natural forms and interconnected imagery brought the two sculptures together, creating artworks that reflect the surrounding coastal environment.
Rather than treating the buoys as ordinary canvases, the designs worked with their sculptural forms, allowing the artwork to wrap around each object and be experienced from different angles. The result was a pair of unique public artworks that combine local identity, environmental inspiration and creative reuse.
The community response was fantastic, showing how overlooked objects can become engaging landmarks when reimagined through art. Projects like this demonstrate how councils can breathe new life into existing infrastructure and historical objects, creating memorable public spaces while celebrating the character of their region.
Location: East Gippsland
Medium: Acrylic & Spray Paint
Client: East Gippsland Shire Council
Have a mural project in mind?
Get in touch to discuss your project and receive a free quote.
Still exploring?
View more mural projects and explore my portfolio by project type.