Repairs Completed on High Street Artworks

Published on 04 August 2023

One of Mansfield’s most prominent pieces of public art, the ‘Pole People’, recently received a restoration.

Wear and tear had taken its toll on the artworks over time, so Mansfield Shire Council contacted award-winning artist, Ann Ferguson, who facilitated the workshop where the original pieces were built, to undertake the repair works.

Ann enlisted local mosaic artist Sue Binzer-Jones to assist, and over three days they carefully rebuilt, reinforced, and repaired parts of the artworks.

“We had to import a special epoxy for fine cracks and local cement-based products to complete the works,” said Ms Ferguson.

“We ensured we didn’t restore the original surfaces as this would be considered interfering with the original work; the weathering and lichen growth has also added an interesting effect.”

The artworks were originally part of a creative initiative in 2004 by Central Access disability support group manager, Leanne Robson. Five students were invited to a workshop with Ann Ferguson to work with ceramics and make a sculpture representing themselves.

“I love hanging out with the pole people because they are like my friends,” said one of the original artists, Emily Reynolds.

“I am happy they are fixed because they took a long time to make, and we had such fun making them.”

Inspired by the creation of the works, noted local playwright, Heather Matthew, wrote a play that was performed at the Mansfield Performing Arts Centre entitled ‘Five’. The artworks were then installed permanently in the median strip at the community’s request.

Mayor Cr James Tehan said the ‘Pole People’ have a strong connection to the community and Council wanted to ensure they were repaired.

“There have been some great additions to this end of High Street, with new murals, sculptures and interactive art, but it is just as important to ensure our established works receive attention as well,” he said.

These repairs were funded by the state government’s Council Assist grant. The Pole People can be found in the High Street Median Strip near the Collopy St crossover. 

For more information on this project please contact Council at council@mansfield.vic.gov.au or call 5775 8555.