Today marks the beginning of the installation of a permanent new piece of public art at the Mends Street Promenade on the South Perth foreshore.

Created by Western Australian artist Amanda Shelsher, the artwork, titled ‘Resonance’ was modelled on three swan feathers, cast in bronze, and stands up to 1.9 metres high. 

“Sitting on a site once overwhelmed with black swans in the 1600s, Resonance pays respect and tribute to its new location with its century old changing landscape,” Mayor Sue Doherty said.

“These three sculptural feathers are symbolic of the abundant bird life that once stood on these shores and more deeply, speaks of the spirits of people past, present and future.”

The central spines of the artwork reveal anecdotes and memories of local Nyungar families and the first recollections of early explorers de Vlamingh and James Stirling. The feathers are reflections of a time in the 1940s when the land was used by the resourceful migrant Chinese market gardeners who once supplied the local community of South Perth with the fruit of their crops.

Traditionally a ceramic artist, Resonance takes Ms Shelsher’s practice to new heights, revealing new form and medium whilst examining the theme of how as humans we connect with nature.

The artwork is part of the City of South Perth’s A Story to Tell programme which brings together over 30 local arts and event activities celebrating the stories of our City.