Wirrabara Silo Art - South Australia

The Viterra Silos in Wirrabara underwent an extraordinary transformation in October 2018, thanks to the immense talent and vision of artist Smug. These towering structures, standing 28 meters high, became the canvas for Smug’s artistic interpretation, a process that spanned over three weeks of detailed and dedicated work.

The silos, which had previously been simple, functional landmarks, were now transformed into a striking display of art, capturing the attention of all who passed by.

To bring his design to life, Smug employed a boom lift, which allowed him to work at great heights and meticulously apply his vision to the massive surface area of the silos. Every stroke was carefully executed to ensure that every element of the artwork was rendered with the utmost precision, resulting in a mural that is as impressive in its scale as it is in its execution.

The finished product now proudly features the likeness of Dion Lebrun, a local resident from Tumby Bay, who was handpicked by Smug to represent the essence of a quintessential South Australian farmer.

This portrayal was inspired by a chance encounter between Smug and Dion at the Tumby Bay Street Art Festival in April 2018. The connection made during that meeting led Smug to choose Dion as the subject of this larger-than-life mural, capturing his image as an authentic reflection of the hardworking, resilient farming community of South Australia.

In the mural, Dion is depicted standing tall, with a trusty axe slung over his shoulder, exuding the quiet strength and determination of a seasoned farmer. Resting on his shoulder is a Robin Red Breast, a subtle yet meaningful detail that symbolizes the harmonious bond between man and nature. This delicate interaction between Dion and the bird is not just an artistic choice, but also a representation of the deep connection that farmers like Dion have with the land they cultivate and the wildlife that shares it.

Visitors to the Viterra Silos can easily access the site, as there is ample parking available in a conveniently located car park on Forest Road. Whether passing by or stopping to admire the artwork up close, the silos stand as a monumental tribute to both the skill of the artist and the spirit of the South Australian farming community.

This striking transformation has turned the once utilitarian silos into an iconic piece of public art, blending agriculture, nature, and community in a way that resonates with all who see it.