Images by Rosina Possingham
A new mural has taken over the side of the McEwin Building at Lot Fourteen, championing the art, science, and imagination that’s putting South Australia’s space credentials and creativity on the map.
The nearly 20-metre-high display spans a huge 160 square metres, and has transformed the once-quiet walls of the Australian Space Agency headquarters with heaps of colour and personality.
Named ‘Shy Sky’, the piece was created and brought to life by acclaimed local artist Laura Wills, and at its centre features a celestial platypus gliding gracefully through a cosmic night sky. This magnificent platypus was commissioned by the Australian Space Agency to be bold, curious, and undeniably whimsical. The work invites passers-by to look up and reflect on their place in the universe, all while celebrating the role space plays in our everyday lives.
Artist, Laura Wills says, “Shy Sky explores the interconnectedness of Earth and space, inviting us to reflect on our place in the universe while inspiring collective imagination and innovation.
“It depicts a South Australian satellite tracking a celestial platypus as it swims through the galaxy of our consciousness, a symbol connecting us to both past and future.
“My primary goal is to communicate the vital connection between space and life on Earth.”
Laura beat out fierce competition to win the commission. Her past work includes projects with the Women’s and Children’s Hospital and Adelaide Botanic Garden. Now, she’s brought her unique storytelling style to South Australia’s emerging space hub.
Located above North Terrace, Shy Sky is a proud reminder that South Australia is now home to the Australian Space Agency, the Australian Space Discovery Centre, and a growing constellation of startups and researchers all working to shape the future of space exploration from right here in Adelaide.
Diane Dixon, State Project Lead for Lot Fourteen, shared, “This phenomenal new artwork highlights Lot
Fourteen’s continuing focus on creating magnetic, cultural and engaging places for those who work and visit our innovation district.
“We’re honoured to collaborate with the Australian Space Agency and an artist of Wills’ calibre. The mural’s vibrant depiction, capturing the essence of exploration and boundless curiosity driving us forward, is evident.
And the timing couldn’t be better. The mural will be front and centre this July as part of Illuminate Adelaide’s Base Camp at Lot Fourteen.
Now’s the perfect time to drop by Lot Fourteen, look up, snap a selfie with a cosmic platypus, and maybe even pop into the Australian Space Discovery Centre to explore your own orbit.
To view the artwork, visitors can enter Lot Fourteen via North Terrace and walk towards the back of the McEwin Building which houses the Australian Space Discovery Centre.
For more information, click here.
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