Stunning new sculpture captures our maritime history

Published on 09 November 2022

Sculptor Matt Calvert’s artwork titled ‘Beacon’ is sited near pedestrian underpass at the former intersection of Eel Race Road and Nepean Highway.

North West Ward Cr Kris Bolam said: “This Eel Race Road location has provided us with an ideal opportunity for a significant sculpture commission at a prominent gateway site.

“Matt has titled his impressive piece Beacon – it’s not only a beacon for his talent, but also a beacon for Frankston City and our commitment to the arts. It contributes to our City’s cultural identity, which is growing in recognition across the state.

“This sculptural glass tower and compass marker incorporates and celebrates the maritime history of Port Philip Bay. The sculpture is 8 metres in height, made of corten steel at the base and completed by laminated plate glass.”

Cr Bolam added: “This has become Matt’s signature material. It is a waste product from the building industry and would otherwise end up in landfill – giving this sculpture strong environmental credentials, as well as its intrinsic qualities of beauty, versatility and durability.”

Sculptor Matt Calvert said: “Numerous channel markers and beacons have stood in and around the fringes of Port Phillip Bay since early European settlement. Back in those days Frankston was more accessible by boat than track, and the sea was a major thoroughfare for traders, fishermen and early settlers.

“Beacon celebrates the connection of the sea and the land, acting as a marker of the way, a directional pointer in the landscape — a place marker.

“The work is both a contemporary lighthouse and compass. The corten band and internal steel work that provides the structural support for the glass acts as the directional points of north, south, east and west.”

Matt added: “The compass point forms the centre core of a solid black glass section. As the sunlight hits the glass it will shimmer, as do the waters of the bay nearby.

“The corten steel elements will weather so that a rusty, orange patina develops, contrasting nicely with the glass. With its height and strong vertical presence, the work will be easily seen by both pedestrians and passing traffic.”