Art paints the final touch to Warwick Farm and Canley Vale upgrades
Canley Vale Railway Station and the Warwick Farm Commuter Car Park have never looked better, with both transport hubs now featuring vibrant displays by local artists.
Transport for NSW's Project Director Sharbel Sarkis said a striking mural symbolising family, community, harmony and connection now adorns the entry to Canley Vale Railway Station, while an almost 150 number-plate style aluminium wall hanging is featured at Warwick Farm Commuter Car Park.
“It is important that our transport hubs are welcoming and vibrant places, and incorporating artwork is one of the ways we can achieve this,” Mr Sarkis said.
“These are inspirational artists who are capturing the essence of the local community and we are proud to support their art,” Mr Sarkis said.
“I thank the local artists for their fantastic work which can now be enjoyed by commuters and the wider community for years to come.”
Local artist Christina Huynh, who painted the mural at Canley Vale Station, took inspiration from feedback received in a community survey and created something with a series of symbols that show what Canley Vale means to her.
“I grew up in St Johns Park and my family live all around the greater Fairfield area. The imagery in this mural is based off a childhood memory when I had a pet goldfish, that used to swim into my hands,” Ms Huynh said.
The flora represents the community’s enthusiasm for gardening throughout the region, while a closer look at the trinkets placed along the charms depicts the cultural diversity, local craftsmanship and the heritage of Canley Vale.
Elements of the design acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which the mural stands, the Cabrogal of the Darug nation. The cobra grub which was harvested on the banks of the Georges River is symbolised in the trinket. The far left of the mural features a bark canoe, an essential wayfaring tool used for hunting, fishing and travelling through waterways for over 30,000 years.
Artist Abdullah M. I. Syed, a former resident artist at the Fairfield City Museum and a finalist at the Hazelhurst Prize and Moran Photography Awards describes the artwork at Warwick Farm as a tapestry of movement and culture.
“The design draws from the rich and vibrant history of the area, with the plates using words beginning with the letter ‘W’ – a playful nod to Warwick Farm and the community’s welcoming, winning, wondering nature,” Mr Syed said.
As part of the Transport Access Program, Canley Vale railway station has recently been upgraded with new lifts, a redesigned entry, better facilities for the mobility impaired, drop off areas and security lighting. Warwick Farm Commuter Car Park has seen 250 new car spaces being created along with upgraded lifts, provisions for electric vehicles and solar powered building services.
For more information and images of the artworks, go to www.transport.nsw.gov.au/canleyvale and www.transport.nsw.gov.au/warwickfarm