Town in uproar over $18,000 ‘doomsday’ clock—here’s why it matters
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In a well-known urban park, a recent art installation has caught public attention, stirring debate over the purpose of public art and broader social issues.
While some see it as a bold statement, others question its impact and significance.
The discussion continues, reflecting deeper tensions around creativity and community values.
The installation, a countdown clock titled Zone Red in Fitzroy's Edinburgh Gardens, ticks away until 2030—a year that looms large with significant climate action milestones for Australia and the world.
Created by local artist Yandell Walton, the piece is the latest to grace the plinth in the gardens, which showcases a new installation every year, funded by the City of Yarra council.
At first glance, the clock may seem like a simple timepiece, but its implications run deep.
It's a visual representation of the ticking clock on climate change, a reminder that time is running out to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate the effects of global warming.
The artwork, which some have dubbed the 'doomsday' clock, has been met with admiration and criticism since its erection in October.
On one hand, the clock has been praised as a thought-provoking conversation starter.
A young woman passing through the park remarked, 'It's kind of cool...it makes you think.'
Indeed, art has the power to inspire reflection and dialogue, and Zone Red seems to be doing just that, at least for some.
However, not everyone is convinced of the installation's value.
Critics have slammed the artwork as a waste of taxpayer money, questioning the council's decision to spend $18,000 on a piece that serves as an unwelcome reminder of a grim future.
'Truthfully, it's just crap,' said one local man, expressing a desire to enjoy the park without the looming message of doom.
Online, the sentiment is echoed by many who feel that their money could be better spent elsewhere.
'No more money wasted on taxpayer's funds. It’s a disgrace what all the councils are doing without community involvement,' a local woman wrote on social media.
However, the City of Yarra council's decision states that the price is 'a small part of a modest budget' aimed at 'supporting emerging local artists.'
Compared to other public art expenditures, like Canberra's $14 million Ouroboros sculpture, the cost of Zone Red may seem relatively modest.
The clock symbolises resilience and vulnerability, powered by the sun and harnessing renewable energy.
As each second ticks by, it serves as a stark reminder of the approaching deadline for climate action, juxtaposing the sense of alarm with the hope for change.
The original plinth, which once housed a statue of Queen Victoria that vanished over a century ago, now serves as a platform for contemporary issues, reflecting the community's evolving values and concerns.
In April next year, Zone Red will be replaced under the City's Edinburgh Gardens Plinth Program, making way for another artist's vision.
Whether you view the clock as a necessary wake-up call or an unwelcome intrusion, it's clear that Zone Red has achieved its goal of drawing attention to the urgent reality of climate change.
As Walton puts it, the installation 'visually embodies the countdown to a critical moment in our planet’s future.'
As members of the Seniors Discount Club, we've seen many changes over the years and understand the importance of preserving tradition and embracing progress.
Public art, like Zone Red, can be a powerful tool for raising awareness and sparking change.
Engaging in these conversations is essential whether we agree with the methods or not.
Credit: YouTube
Have you seen Zone Red in person? What's your take on the use of public funds for art installations, especially those with a message? Share your views in the comments below, and let's discuss the role of art in our communities and in the fight against climate change.
While some see it as a bold statement, others question its impact and significance.
The discussion continues, reflecting deeper tensions around creativity and community values.
The installation, a countdown clock titled Zone Red in Fitzroy's Edinburgh Gardens, ticks away until 2030—a year that looms large with significant climate action milestones for Australia and the world.
Created by local artist Yandell Walton, the piece is the latest to grace the plinth in the gardens, which showcases a new installation every year, funded by the City of Yarra council.
At first glance, the clock may seem like a simple timepiece, but its implications run deep.
An $18,000 'doomsday' countdown clock has been installed in Edinburgh Gardens, Fitzroy. Credit: YouTube
It's a visual representation of the ticking clock on climate change, a reminder that time is running out to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate the effects of global warming.
The artwork, which some have dubbed the 'doomsday' clock, has been met with admiration and criticism since its erection in October.
On one hand, the clock has been praised as a thought-provoking conversation starter.
A young woman passing through the park remarked, 'It's kind of cool...it makes you think.'
Indeed, art has the power to inspire reflection and dialogue, and Zone Red seems to be doing just that, at least for some.
However, not everyone is convinced of the installation's value.
Critics have slammed the artwork as a waste of taxpayer money, questioning the council's decision to spend $18,000 on a piece that serves as an unwelcome reminder of a grim future.
'Truthfully, it's just crap,' said one local man, expressing a desire to enjoy the park without the looming message of doom.
Online, the sentiment is echoed by many who feel that their money could be better spent elsewhere.
'No more money wasted on taxpayer's funds. It’s a disgrace what all the councils are doing without community involvement,' a local woman wrote on social media.
However, the City of Yarra council's decision states that the price is 'a small part of a modest budget' aimed at 'supporting emerging local artists.'
Compared to other public art expenditures, like Canberra's $14 million Ouroboros sculpture, the cost of Zone Red may seem relatively modest.
The clock symbolises resilience and vulnerability, powered by the sun and harnessing renewable energy.
As each second ticks by, it serves as a stark reminder of the approaching deadline for climate action, juxtaposing the sense of alarm with the hope for change.
The original plinth, which once housed a statue of Queen Victoria that vanished over a century ago, now serves as a platform for contemporary issues, reflecting the community's evolving values and concerns.
In April next year, Zone Red will be replaced under the City's Edinburgh Gardens Plinth Program, making way for another artist's vision.
Whether you view the clock as a necessary wake-up call or an unwelcome intrusion, it's clear that Zone Red has achieved its goal of drawing attention to the urgent reality of climate change.
As Walton puts it, the installation 'visually embodies the countdown to a critical moment in our planet’s future.'
As members of the Seniors Discount Club, we've seen many changes over the years and understand the importance of preserving tradition and embracing progress.
Public art, like Zone Red, can be a powerful tool for raising awareness and sparking change.
Engaging in these conversations is essential whether we agree with the methods or not.
Credit: YouTube
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