A new artwork at Preston Station will stand 3m high and create an interactive, playable space for the community to explore the suburb’s history.
Built as part of 4 level crossing removals at Oakover Road, Bell Street, Cramer Street and Murray Road, the new Preston Station opened to passengers in September 2022.
The Playful Exchange by Sanné Mestrom will feature 2 sculptures made from concrete and bronze, which will be displayed at either end of the station on the eastern side of the rail line.
“This work will bring together the diversity of the area, with the dynamic, energetic character of the adjacent Preston Market,” she said.
The playable sculpture offers a space for individuals of all backgrounds to come together, explore and celebrate their shared heritage, viewers are invited to engage and interact with the artwork.
“In my artistic exploration of the theme ‘This is Our Preston’ I seek to celebrate and contribute to the vibrant tapestry of Preston’s rich migrant and multicultural history,” Sanné said.
The artist described the sculptures as embodying the essence of connection and belonging, serving as a physical representation of the collective experiences and rich diversity of Preston’s communities.
The level crossings at Oakover Road, Bell Street, Cramer Street and Murray Road in Preston were removed in 2022, by elevating the Mernda Line over the 4 roads, and new stations at Bell and Preston open to passengers.
A shared walking and cycling path from Oakover Road through to Murray Road connects locals to the new stations and open spaces which feature seating, play areas, BBQ facilities, amphitheatre, and native planting.
In total 110 level crossings are being removed across Melbourne by 2030, with 84 already gone for good.