Life Cycles

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Research Background Interpretation design is an interdisciplinary design practice that includes site-specific artworks with interpretive or place-making intent. Interpretation design in all its forms remains poorly understood, with few models of practice and little academic research (Woodward 2009; Weiler 2005). The new Health Centre aimed to integrate art into the fabric of the building and the visitor experience to promote well-being. The Life-Cycles fence artwork communicates the calming, welcoming character of the centre through reference to the natural environment. Research Contribution The project contributes to knowledge of interpretation design practice through a site-specific art intervention that concurrently interprets the site's function and reinforces community connection with the landscape. The design refers to the local river's meandering form, vertical reeds and native fish. It exemplifies an ongoing area of investigation in my practice of creating permanent installations in the public realm that play a role in shaping the identity of communities in areas where the environment is barren or impoverished and art is an uncommon element in the landscape. The project traverses the boundary between design and public art through a focus on interpretive intent in a functional fence structure. Research Significance The project was awarded through a rigorous competitive public tender based on a concept design and rationale. Final selection was through interview by LaTrobe Council's public art panel. Council and community response to the work has been extremely positive and I was later invited to speak about the work at a function of community members and dignitaries. The interpretive artwork is a permanent installation and forms part of the LaTrobe Community Health Service permanent art collection.