Project Description
We will be reimagining a piece of Bondi history by paying homage to the Bondi Mermaids that used to sit on Ben Buckler rock. We have commissioned mermaid-themed public art work designs for the community to provide their feedback on.
The design selected will be situated in South Bondi Park to reflect the old rock sculptures that once sat on Ben Buckler.
We will be exhibiting the three shortlisted concept designs for feedback from 25 March to 29 April 2024 and welcome your responses.
The Bondi Mermaids public art project is outlined as Site 5: Bondi Park in the Waverley Council Public Art Master Plan.
Project Background
Mermaids hold a special place in the heart of Bondi locals. In 1960, two mermaid statues were famously erected without permission on the large rock of Ben Buckler by artist Lyall Randolph. The sculptures were much loved landmarks, but they were also subject of university pranks, and fierce coastal conditions.
Mermaid Lynette (modelled after champion swimmer Lynette Whillier) was never seen again after being swept off the rock by a heavy storm in 1974. Mermaid Jan (modelled after Miss Australia Surf 1959, Jan Carmody) lost an arm and her tail during the same storm and sat alone till 1976 when we she was removed. Jan is now on display in the Waverley Library.
The mermaids remain an iconic part of our local history being an enduring memory for many in the community.
On 1st May 2023 Council released an open Expression of Interest (EOI) calling for suitably qualified Architects, artists, Landscape Architects and designers interested in developing a ‘Concept Design’ for The Bondi Mermaids Public Art Project. The EOI was managed through Tenderlink and was an open application process. The EOI closed on 2 June 2023.
Three applications were received. All three applicants presented portfolios of an exceptionally high calibre. All three applicants were progressed to the ‘Concept Design’ stage of the project.
This survey presents the ‘Concept Designs’ developed by all three applicants in response to the project brief as outlined in the Waverley Public Art Masterplan and Waverley Council’s Principal Framework for Public Art.
To read about the Principal Framework for Public Art in Waverley please see Waverley Council’s Public Art Policy click: Waverley Public Art Policy
This process has been subject to Council transparency requirements.
We look forward to receiving your feedback on these concept designs via the survey portal as below.
