World-Class Kinetic Sculpture puts the Pyrenees on the Map

The Cradle is a mesmerising, wind-driven kinetic sculpture by regional Victorian artist Alex Sanson and sets the tone to develop a sculpture trail across the region. We are working closely with Shire Council, local artists, community arts and recreational groups on the project. Part of the creation of the new work invites community groups to participate in building the ‘people’ figures who represent the villages of the shire, while ensuring quality control of the artwork outcome. This brings diverse local interest groups together to work collectively toward a common project goal and to increase the tourism economy of the Pyrenees.

The forthcoming Beaufort Western Highway bypass will remove traffic from the center of Beaufort, including valuable tourists. The project positions Beaufort as a gateway to our unique beautiful region. Workshops bring the community together stimulating creative thinking, and fosters local identity as an ‘arty town’. The Apprenticeship Program mentors young people in professional public art concept development, fabrication and installation. Documentation of the creative process creates free online sculpture Master Classes. Ultimately the project promotes the delights of the Pyrenees environment, new technologies, and celebrates the transformation of a desolate block to the beginning of a new vibrant arts precinct.