The work was designed to be accessible, being tactile for the sight impaired and accessible by wheelchair. Reaching 4 metres to the highest point, it has been constructed of concrete, Mintaro slate and steel with a hot dipped zinc finish. Inlaid into the slate surface are figures formed by the use of locally found shards of pottery from early Adelaide homes and Bennett’s Potters terracotta rubble. Linda also worked with the children from Brompton Primary and their drawings can be seen incised around the base of the sculpture.
Journey - consists of two elements, both 3.5 metres high on each side of the bike path, made from bronze and stainless steel. The work represents the paths of life, and of time, leading to and from, forming a passage way. The viewer is held on one side of the path, grounded. The materials, physical, spiritual and emotional goals that we strive for are on the other side, the 'ladder of success'. The work invites us to rise above obstacles so that we can 'fly' to the other side to reach our goals. The work along the path represents moving through our dreams, hopes and aspirations.
This group of three sculptures was commissioned in 1994 by Foundation SA (now Arts SA). 'The River Markers' were part of a group of four sculptures placed in this area along the River Torrens. They refer to aspects of the environment prior to white settlement and offer an interesting contrast with the 19th Century layout of the surrounding Parklands. The first marker is a stylized version of the pacific black duck shown above water and stone. The second marker shows river red gum leaves and flowers with kangaroo grass and rushes divided by the sweep of time, the big headed gudgeon and the blue spotted goby. Galvanised iron was used to construct the sculptures because of its close relation to materials used by the early settlers.
On the south western boundary of the city lies historic West Terrace Cemetery, a place of great sculptural beauty and heritage significance. As old as European settlement, this field of headstones is home to more than 150,000 souls, and provides a fascinating glimpse into South Australian history. Each grave has a unique tale to tell; some heartwrenching, some uplifting and others of unique historical importance.
Regular guided tours are conducted at 11:30am on the first Tuesday of each month and can be booked by calling 8139 7407. Group bookings can also be made.
Alternatively, visitors can follow the Heritage Highlights Interpretive Trail and discover many of the captivating and long-forgotten stories at their leisure. The self-guided loop walk starts just inside the main entrance and allows visitors to learn about some of the State’s earliest settlers, notable figures and controversial characters.