Sculptures on the Marsh
Announced in October 2021, the Shire of Derby/West Kimberley was successful in its grant application for four new sculptures as part of its Sculptures on the Marsh project.
The Shire received the full amount of its $110,000 grant application after submitting the grant application in March 2021.
The successful grant was announced by Federal Member for Durack, Melissa Price MP, as part of the Federal Building Better Regions Fund – Infrastructure Projects Round 5.
The Sculptures on the Marsh initiative is a great boost for tourism and economic development and leverages the popularity of existing sculptures by local artist Mark Norval, which are already a unique and much-loved Derby attraction.
The project is based on the demonstrated success of the two trial sculptures erected on the marsh in 2019, Contemplation and Outback Football, which reflect the North West outback lifestyle and are particularly impressive at sunset.
The project is designed to entice visitors to Derby by incorporating a trail of impressive sculptures erected around the marsh which are designed to depict local culture, are designed by local artists, and strategically placed to maximise the magnificent Derby sunset.
It also showcases Derby’s culture, Indigenous artists and natural assets, bringing a sense of identity to the community and driving economic growth and job creation by attracting more visitors on their Gibb River Road adventure to visit and stay overnight in Derby.
Our vision is for the six sculptures in total will certainly help us towards achieving this ambition.
The names of the four new sculptures are:
- Kimberley Ringer, stockman (has been installed)
- Kimberley Moon Goddess (has been installed)
- Brolga
- Family.
The Norval Gallery Facebook page can be found here.