OSK Property, the team behind the $3-billion precinct Melbourne Square, is about to unveil Melbourne’s newest large-scale illuminated landmark, an eye-catching public artwork by nationally renowned artist Troy Emery, titled Guardian Lion.
Designed and created by the local Melbourne artist, the large-scale artwork – which features bright colours, LED lighting and a distinctive silhouette – now stands as a bold addition to Melbourne’s cityscape, joining the ranks of cultural icons like Richmond’s ‘Skipping Girl Vinegar Sign’ and the iconic Hosier Lane.
Inspired by Melbourne’s dynamic arts culture, alongside Victoria’s ‘Grampians big cat’ folklore, the artwork refers to a mythical big cat that roamed the Grampian Mountain ranges with sightings dating back over a century.
“This is an incredibly exciting milestone in my career,” said Emery. “Guardian Lion signifies my first permanent public installation in my hometown and it’s an honour to contribute to Melbourne’s ever-growing library of public art. I hope this colourful art wall becomes a beloved city landmark, acting as a guardian to the city and standing as a welcome protector to visitors and residents alike.”
Cementing Southbank’s identity as a local arts and culture hub, City of Melbourne Lord Mayor Nick Reece said, “The Guardian Lion is Melbourne’s most important neon sign since the Skipping Girl and it’s going to become a landmark for our city. It’s a brilliant addition the thriving and evolving public art scene in Melbourne – solidifying our position as Australia’s leading art city.”
Measuring 15.4m (h) x 18.7m (w) x 0.3m (d), Guardian Lion’s laser-cut aluminium structure is adorned with LED flex lighting to be lit-up at night, creating a dazzling spectrum of colour from afar. Its location on the southern podium wall of Melbourne Square’s residential towers will ensure it is an unmissable sight for those entering Melbourne via the Westgate Freeway or passing through Southbank and South Melbourne.
Guardian Lion’s unveiling is underpinned by OSK Property’s commitment to the local Southbank community. Alongside its residential apartments, Melbourne Square offers retail stores, hospitality dining options, cafés, and expansive green public spaces such as parks, basketball courts, and more.
OSK Property Australia CEO, Chong Boon Woon, commented on the significance of Guardian Lion for the precinct by saying “We are deeply inspired by the power of public art to connect spaces and communities. Guardian Lion is a testament to our vision of making Melbourne Square a cultural and social hub for Southbank. This symbol of Melbourne’s creative and inclusive spirit is our contribution and one that we hope continues to thrive for many years to come”.
Guardian Lion will be open to the public as a must-see destination and will be visible 24/7 with neon-LED lighting turned on each night.
The artwork will be officially unveiled and lit up for the first time on Friday 7 March at Melbourne Square during a commemorative community event at 29 Balston Street, Southbank, hosted from 6:30 p.m. onwards.
In keeping with the artwork’s feline theme, the event invites Melburnians and the local Southbank community to enjoy free pet portrait photography and an outdoor cinema screening of The Secret Life of Pets.
Melbourne Loyd Mayor Nick Reece and Guardian Lion artist Troy Emery will be in attendance to celebrate the artwork’s illumination for the first time.
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