Montrose Sounding Columns
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| Image Credit: John Gollings [detail] |
Artist: Anton Hasell
Year: 2017
Media: Bronze
Location: Centre Reserve, Montrose Town Centre Reserve, Unit 2/935 Mount Dandenong Tourist Rd, Montrose VIC 3765
Coordinates: Latitude: -37.81038448387943, 145.3445530279774 Longitude: 145.3445530279774
Summary
Created during the 2017 redevelopment of the Montrose Town Centre, Montrose Sounding Columns is a collaborative public artwork by sculptor Anton Hasell, integrated into the building’s architecture in partnership with Architecture Matters. The work features interactive bronze elements that invite visitors to engage with sound and space.
Inspiration
The artwork draws inspiration from the natural environment of the Dandenong Ranges and the acoustic qualities of public space. The columns at the building’s entrance are clad in patterns reminiscent of tree fern trunks.
From Architecture Matters:
“We worked closely with noted sculptor Anton Hasell who developed a cast bronze public art piece that is integrated with the architecture. The columns at the entry are clad with patterning reminiscent of the tree fern trunks commonly found throughout Dandenong Ranges. The artwork incorporates interactive elements such as cast bronze drums that visitors can ‘play’ in passing as well as three cast bronze bells which were set into the foyer wall to provide interest and playfulness to the interior.”
Anton Hasell reflects on the collaborative process:
“This artwork was commissioned in collaboration with Architecture Matters who designed the renovation on Montrose Town Centre. What began as a free-standing sculpture out front of the annexe connecting the buildings wonderfully became part of the fabric of the building. So, in celebration of the performance centre, the drums in the column can be played by the public to sound the building itself. The three small harmonic bells inside the front space calling patrons to their seats continues this idea of an acoustic causeway into the building space. Working with Anthony Gionfriddo was a beautiful experience.”
Features
At the entrance to Montrose Town Centre, two 4-metre-high cast bronze columns house 14 playable tongue drums. These interactive elements are designed to be struck by hand, allowing passersby to engage with the building through sound.
Inside the foyer, three cast bronze harmonic bells are embedded into the wall. These bells continue the theme of acoustic interaction, inviting visitors to “sound” the space as they enter. A dong is available from front-of-house staff for those wishing to play the bells.
Visiting
Montrose Sounding Columns is located at the entrance and foyer of Montrose Town Centre. Visitors are encouraged to interact with the drums and bells.