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Cuttlefish Craig up for a national award

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Cuttlefish Craig
Photo: Whyalla City Council

Whyalla City Council, Media Release, 18 February 2022

An unusual sculpture that pays homage to Whyalla’s giant cuttlefish has been named as one of the best public art experiences in the nation. The ‘Accessible Cuttlefish Throne’ at the Whyalla jetty has been shortlisted for the 2021 Australian Street Art Awards’ Best Landmark Sculpture gong.

The Australian Street Art Awards, established in 2018, recognise destinations like Whyalla that are using outdoor art to attract visitors, boost their economy and engage their community.

Awards Director Liz Rivers said, “The Awards inform travellers about the magnificent array of publicly-accessible art that can be found in every corner of the country and the communities that have invested in these attractions because they’re keen to welcome visitors”

Cuttlefish Craig seat
Jacob and Isabella Barlow love Whyalla’s inclusive Cuttlefish chair affectionately known as ‘Craig’. Source: Whyalla City Council

Whyalla’s inclusive cuttlefish throne, affectionately known as Craig, was created by artist Karen Carr, who is equally affectionately known as Squashed Cocky. Working with the Whyalla community to celebrate the city’s marine ecosystem, Karen designed an installation that honours the destination’s world-famous annual Giant Cuttlefish aggregation while also making a space for people with all abilities. The stunning sculptural mosaic is adjacent to Whyalla’s iconic circular jetty, provides a place for contemplation, to ‘feel’ the artwork and enjoy the Spencer Gulf sea-breezes.

The judges said, “We particularly love that this piece brought the community together to work with the artist in creating a unique, eye-catching sculpture that doubles as a community amenity”

The project was funded by the Whyalla City Council and Country Arts SA through the Regional Arts Funds 2020 and coordinated by Whyalla City Councils Cultural Facilitator Deb Hughes.

Whyalla City Council Cultural Facilitator Deb Hughes said it was fantastic to have Cuttlefish Craig nominated for this award.

“Craig really is an incredible work and the journey to his creation was something that the community should be proud of. The work was created by the hands of many people in our community. It was created for our community and the visitors to our city to engage with, to enjoy and to learn from” Deb said.

“We are really proud of this community art piece. We are up against some incredible works from around Australia, but regardless of the outcome of the awards, we think Craig is a real winner!”

The winners in all 11 Australian Street Art Awards categories will be announced as part of an online celebration on 4 March 2022.

Related story: Gold for Cuttlefish Craig!

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