By Justin Flynn
A new neon artwork by Geelong artist Glen Smith is a 21st century nod to John Brack’s famous 1955 painting ‘Collins Street, 5pm’.
The artwork, Clare Street, 5pm has been installed on Grace Church, Clare Street, is part of a program to activate outdoor areas and support Greater Geelong’s night-time economy.
“Most recently my artworks have been investigating local architecture with an absence of people,” Glen said.
“I decided I wanted to make some new works less static, adding people crossing intersections within central Geelong.
“This concept in turn then reminded me of John Brack’s ‘Collins Street, 5pm’. So I then decided to investigate how I could do a 21st century riff on his artwork by using neon as my medium instead of oil paint.”
Feedback for the artwork so far has been positive.
“People have really liked how it brightens up a fairly utilitarian wall and have also commented on the diversity and inclusivity aspects,” Glen said.
“I think the work is fairly accessible to all viewers which has resulted in its favourable public reception.”
Glen has completed a few public artworks in town, including the Chrissy Amphlett mural in Dennys Place, but this is the first time he has had the opportunity to play with neon lighting.
“I feel neon is a contemporary medium for public artworks, reflective and fitting for a burgeoning modern metropolis such as Geelong,” he said.
“I feel the colours and movement in my piece reflects our changing culture, street level activity and human intervention against the backdrop of our built environment.”
