Mansfield Library gets a visit from The Fringe artist Fleur Schell

Published on 14 March 2025

A visit by Western Australian ceramicist Fleur Schell followed the recent installation of her artwork, The Fringe, at the Mansfield Library.

The Fringe was the People’s Choice winner of the 2023 Klytie Pate Ceramic Award. It was purchased by Arts Mansfield and offered on permanent loan to the library, ensuring it would be available for everyone in Mansfield to enjoy. The 8 porcelain characters making up the artwork are displayed in a cabinet custom-made by local artisan Jeff Reid.

Fleur was in Mansfield on the Labour Day weekend as the guest speaker at the Mansfield Pottery Festival, and dropped in to the library to see her sculpture’s new home.

“As a child I was mesmerised by the fringes on my clothing, the edges that tasselled and shimmered. Fringe is also described as not part of the mainstream, on the periphery…I yearn to live on the fringe, where humans cohabitate with the natural world,” she said.

Fleur told library staff she was delighted that her sculpture will be on display for the Mansfield community for years to come.

An unveiling ceremony was held for The Fringe at the library on 27 February.

Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said it was a fantastic initiative by Arts Mansfield to purchase the artwork on behalf of the local community.

“Thanks to Arts Mansfield’s efforts in acquiring the artwork and offering it on loan to the Mansfield Library, our whole community can continue to enjoy it and be inspired,” he said.

“Council is delighted to provide a home for The Fringe in our local library. The library is a vital part of our community, a place where people come to learn, explore and connect.

“We want it to be a fun and engaging space. In featuring this artwork, we hope it will spark conversations and connections and maybe inspire others to start getting involved in our arts community,” said Cr Rabie.

For more information about the Mansfield Library including opening hours, visit mansfield.vic.gov.au.