Kennovations Product Design and Engineering worked with artist Ross Shepherd on the development of the public art project ‘Ducks Crossing’ for Ryde City Council.
Ross Shepherd of Site Image Public Art Consultants was the artist for the project ‘Ducks Crossing’, which consists of three gigantic feathers and is located on 118 Talavera Road, Macquarie Park, adding culture and character to the commercial district that represents knowledge, industry and innovation.
Ross conceptualised the artwork of a series of large scale elevated feathers on the main roadway frontage of a Goodman commercial building. Ducks Crossing was created to engage office workers and activate the adjoining streetscape that consists of the Fujitsu building designed by Leffler Simes Architects and constructed by FDC.
As part of the commercial development, Ross proposed a series of concepts to fulfil Ryde City Council’s policies for accompanying public artworks to enrich the urban fabric and cultural content of the area.
Ross explains the concept is a response to the now redundant ‘Ducks Crossing’ signs along Talavera Road, and reflects the impact of urbanisation on natural systems, habitat and wildlife.
Ross worked closely with Kennovations in developing concepts by exploring and generating specific design options for the artwork. This involved investigating kinetic artwork versions, working with the artist to develop detailing, drafting structural design and developing options in 3D for team review. Design considerations included the dynamic effects of wind, rain and sun as well as durability for materials, construction and fabrication.
Ducks Crossing has been highly commended by the Public Art Manager for Ryde City Council as an outstanding example of fulfilling the public art objectives of Council.
