General News
27 May, 2025
Silo art project enters next phase
Artist James Voller has returned to the Llew Schilling Silo in Rainbow further to develop his concept for the site’s art activation, as construction progresses on the highly anticipated project.
Mr Voller, the founder and Creative Director of the Collide Public Art Initiative, secured the project following a national expression of interest campaign.
Known for leading innovative public art projects across Australia, Mr Voller is now tackling a new challenge by installing internal art inside one of the Silo bins, a first for the popular Silo Art genre.
The northern exterior of the Silo will feature a large-scale mural painted by renowned muralist Geoffrey Carran, a long-term collaborator of Collide.
Mr Carran is no stranger to the region, having previously completed the Goroke Silo mural.
Mr Voller said he was excited by the opportunity to deliver both internal and external artworks.
“The Llew Schilling Silo project offers an exciting first, with the challenge of delivering art experiences both outside and inside the Silo,” he said.
“After spending time with Llew and learning more about the Rainbow community, I’m really looking forward to returning and making a start.
“I’m grateful to be given the opportunity to deliver the art activation for the Llew Schilling Silo.
“The addition of internal Silo art is a first and I’m excited to spend time with Llew and learning more about Rainbow.
“I’m looking forward to turning the concept into reality.”
To enable public viewing of the internal artworks, platforms will be built inside the Silo bins at around 5 meters and 20 meters above ground level.
These will connect to a new 25 meters-high viewing tower, currently under construction beside the Silo.
The tower’s staircase will wrap around a central lift, ensuring accessibility for all visitors.
The interior activation will feature images printed on suspended Digiglass panels.
When lit, these panels will transform the interior of the western Silo bin into a visually immersive experience.
Hindmarsh Shire Council mayor Ron Ismay said the community eagerly watches the project’s progress.
“Council and Rainbow residents are excited to see construction of the Llew Schilling Silo project getting underway and is looking forward to the arrival of James and Geoffrey to complete the internal and external artworks,” he said.
Cr Ismay also acknowledged the project’s namesake.
“Llew is a highly regarded and much-valued member of our community here in Rainbow and everybody greatly appreciates his generosity in handing stewardship of the Silo to Council so that this project, a long-held dream of Llew’s, can come to life.”
With foundational work complete, the tower is expected to arrive later this month in three prefabricated sections, to be clad and installed onsite.
The art installation will begin once construction wraps up.
