Apparatus was appointed by MetCONNX to deliver on the METRONET Public aArt Strategy, leading the planning, curating, coordination, and project management of the public art components for the Byford Rail Extension Project. This major infrastructure initiative includes a series of integrated artworks along the new rail corridor, station precincts and surrounding public spaces.
Apparatus worked with numerous Western Australian and Noongar artists across six projects to create a suite of works that recognise culture, community and place. The main artists were Dellas Bennell, Nigel Chadd, Mel McVee (Melski), Haylee Fieldes (Fieldey), Seantelle Walsh (Kardy Kreations), Amok Island, Sioux Tempestt and George Domahidy. Apparatus also worked with Tony Jones to relocate and re-establish his artwork within the new Armadale Station.
The projects include large-scale murals, integrated lighting, sculptural elements and paving artworks at Armadale and Byford Stations. Community engaged artworks were developed with local schools and Local Aboriginal Cultural Advisors. All works respond to the surrounding landscape, flora and fauna, with Noongar stories forming the foundation of three of the new commissions.
The Byford Rail Extension public artworks contribute to a coherent visual language across the precincts. They support a strong sense of local identity and embed cultural narratives within new transport infrastructure for Perth’s southeast.
