The Rocks

We explored Sydney’s oldest neighborhood, The Rocks, where we found olden style cobblestone streets intertwined with modern cafes and restaurants. The rich history of Sydney’s roots are seen in some of its public art.

“First Impressions” is a sculpture located in Playfair Street in The Rocks. This sandstone relief was created by Bud Dumas in 1979 as a memorial to the convicts, soldiers and settlers who made up the original settlement at The Rocks.

“Saltwater Country” are lanterns that can be found also in the Rocks area. It is a collaboration of Graham Toomey and Goldberg Aberline Studio GAS. This work shines a light on the rich history and ongoing cultural spirit of Aboriginal people on Sydney Harbour.

This mural is located on a building that is part of The Rocks Discovery Museum, along Kendall Lane. Here you can see the timeline of images from the period prior to European Settlement to the present. 

A work by artist Lindy Lee can be found outside the Museum of Contemporary Art. It is a large, stainless steel sculpture at Sydney’s Circular Quay.

I am linking this to Natalie’s Photographing Public Art Challenge – PPAC

16 Comments

  1. The wood sculpture is fascinating. I’ve never seen anything like it.

    1. Teresa says:

      I agree. It is wonderful wood carving.

  2. Natalie says:

    Fantastic artworks and photos, Teresa. I particularly like the murals. Thank you for your PPAC contribution.

    1. Teresa says:

      The murals… a different way of presenting history. Thanks for the comment Natalie.

  3. restlessjo says:

    I love those sculptures, Teresa. So unusual!

    1. Teresa says:

      Yup Jo, lucky to find them all in one area.

  4. It is a great area of the city to visit.

    1. Teresa says:

      For sure.

  5. Alison says:

    I haven’t been to Sydney for a while, I do like a walk around The Rocks though. I prefer Melbourne now! 🙄

    1. Teresa says:

      Yes, I prefer Melbourne too but the Rocks is definitely a good place to go.

  6. margaret21 says:

    Great art work and photos! I love ’em!

    1. Teresa says:

      Thanks Margaret, glad you liked them.

  7. Julie says:

    Lovely lanterns. Would love to visit Sydney one day.

    1. Teresa says:

      Maybe visit Melbourne too haha

  8. Karen says:

    I enjoyed the artwork walking with you in pictures. I like the etched sandstone 1st impression. I like rocks & have a collection of heart shaped rocks that I’ve picked up here & there while out exploring.

    1. Teresa says:

      Glad you liked them, Karen. The heart shaped rock collection would be great.

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