When in Benalla

The Thongaphones

Found this interesting sight when crossing over the bridge in Benalla.

The ceramic mural which incorporates mosaics, pottery and tiles, began as a community arts project in 1983, the mural was created in 1985 and the whole project took 27 years to complete, it was officially opened in 2010. The mural is situated on the northern bank of Lake Benalla, (near the Information Centre and Museum in the old Mechanics Institute building). 

Overhead from Benalla City

The Gallery from the mural

It forms part of the Art Gallery's collection - the Gallery is across from the mural on the southern bank.

The structure includes an amphitheatre, viewing platform and two sets of sound pipes (Thongaphones), tuned to a pentatonic scale, they are played with a thong. 

Benalla also has some great painted street murals, including works by Adnate (there's also an Adnate in the Art Gallery), Guido van Helten & RONE.