If you are interested in commissioning any form of public art, including murals or stobie pole art, an expression of interest form should be submitted to Council’s Cultural Development Coordinator. See these examples of high quality public art along our main streets for inspiration.
Before submitting your expression of interest in commissioning public artworks, you will need to consider the following:
- an appropriate budget to pay professional artists and materials;
- location of artwork;
- size of artwork;
- property owner’s permission;
- local and state heritage building status;
- development and building approval;
- WHS and permit requirements;
- public access issues during installation;
- ongoing maintenance issues;
- insurance for all phases of the development, installation and lifetime of the artworks;
- engagement with other local businesses, trader association and wider community;
- themes for the artworks sympathetic to the environment;
- artworks that are not considered commercial advertising i.e. business name or logos will not be accepted. Concepts should be submitted to Council to ensure there are no planning issues;
- artworks that do not vilify any person or group, are not racist or sexist, or support illegal activity; and a
- timeframe to start and complete artworks.
Submit your public artworks expression of interest
Stobie pole art can be a great way to brighten up and enhance our public realm!
Stobie pole art needs the permission of SA Power networks as well as approval from the Council in which the stobie pole resides. Before proceeding it is worth preparing any questions or requesting further advice and direction by contacting Council’s Cultural Development Coordinator at mives@unley.sa.gov.au.
When painting a stobie pole you must:
- consider that not all Stobie poles are suitable for painting; and using blue board and liquid nails is an easier approach than painting directly on to the stobie poles;
- consult with the residents directly adjacent to the proposed stobie pole site and the 3 sites directly opposite prior to commencement and gain their approval to paint. We have a neighbour notification template(DOCX, 24KB)
letter to help you with this.
- seek approval from SA Power Networks. The process is clearly explained on their website. You will need:
- Name and contact details
- Location of the stobie pole
- Information on what you intend to do;
- seek approval from the City of Unley. We have an easy application form to complete. Please note that a trail of over 5 artworks will require further engagement by Council staff with the local ward councillors.
- ensure the painted image shall not be higher than 2.0 metres from ground level;
- ensure the artwork on the pole(s) does not constitute commercial advertising e.g. business name or logo, political material, local messages or directions or any other material likely to offend;
- supply imagery of the proposed works, artist(s) names and details to both SA Power Networks and the City of Unley;
- take responsibility for any ongoing maintenance of the artwork, and understand if the artwork is tagged or damaged, SA Power Networks or the City of Unley will paint over or remove the work at their discretion. The use of an anti-graffiti coating should be considered once completed (if the work is to be on display long term); and
- ensure, during the painting and installation process, the safety of the participants and the public, e.g. use of orange cones, high visibility vests etc. where appropriate.
- Stand back and enjoy your artwork!
You may also be interested in…