Narrandera Water Tower Art - New South Wales

The Narrabundah Water Tank Art, completed in July 2019, serves as an outstanding example of artistic transformation and community collaboration. This impressive project was brought to fruition through the combined efforts of Geoff Filmer, a highly regarded artist from Canberra, and his father, a respected sculptor with a distinguished career of his own.

Together, they applied their creative talents to the otherwise plain, utilitarian surface of the Narrabundah Reservoir, turning it into a magnificent piece of public art that captures the essence of the surrounding environment.

Officially known as the Narrabundah Reservoir, this colossal structure holds an enormous capacity of 18 million liters of water, making it a critical source of supply for the inner southern parts of Canberra. Despite its practical importance, the water tank had long been a target for unsightly graffiti, diminishing its overall appearance and sometimes detracting from its significance as a vital piece of infrastructure. In response to this issue, the mural was created not only to beautify the tank but also to act as a deterrent against further vandalism, transforming the site into something the local community could be proud of while ensuring that the structure remains well-maintained.

The mural is a stunning visual celebration of the region's natural beauty and the biodiversity that thrives in the area. The design incorporates a diverse range of local flora and fauna, each intricately detailed and vividly colored to bring the mural to life.

Among the plants and animals featured are banksias, paper daisies, and goannas, as well as pelicans and other native species. These elements serve to highlight the natural richness of the environment surrounding the water tank, drawing attention to the importance of preserving and appreciating the local ecosystems.

Through this artwork, the artists have not only captured the aesthetic beauty of the region but also celebrated the vital role that nature plays in shaping the community and its identity.

Beyond its artistic merit, the mural serves as a powerful reminder of the connection between art, nature, and infrastructure. By transforming a functional, often overlooked structure into a meaningful work of art, the project has enhanced the visual landscape of the area while also contributing to the preservation and appreciation of the local environment.

The Narrabundah Water Tank Art stands as a testament to the power of creativity in fostering community pride and engagement, and its presence enriches the cultural fabric of Canberra’s inner south.