Development for Rainbow Silo Art Activation Underway

Published on 12 May 2025

Artist James Voller recently returned to the Rainbow Llew Schilling Silo to further develop his concept for art activation at the Silo once construction works are complete. James, the founder and Creative Director of Collide Public Art Initiative, was awarded the project after an extensive expression of interest program which attracted submissions from across Australia. 

James and his team of artists have been responsible for the delivery of innovative public art projects across Australia. The Rainbow Silo presents a new challenge though, with the inclusion of internal art activation within one of the Silo bins - a first for the popular Silo Art genre. 

Activation of the exterior of the Silo will follow traditional lines with a large-scale painting on its northern side. This will be painted by long term Collide collaborator, Geoffrey Carran, one of Australia’s leading mural artists. Geoffrey is familiar with the area, having previously completed the Silo mural at Goroke. 

James expressed his excitement for the project, particularly the opportunity to create art within the Silo. He said “The Llew Schilling Silo project offers an exciting first, with the challenge of delivering art experiences both outside and inside the Silo. 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 spending time with Llew and learning more about Rainbow. I’m looking forward to turning the concept into reality.” 

For viewing of the internal art, platforms will be constructed within each of the Silo bins at approximately 5m and 20m above the ground. The platforms will be linked with the 25m high Tower and viewing platform under construction adjacent to the Silo. The tower includes a stairway wrapped around an elevator which ensures all people, regardless of mobility, will have the opportunity to experience the internal art and the views from the top. 

The innovative internal activation will include pictures printed on suspended Digiglass panels, which when illuminated, will transform the interior of the western Silo bin. 

Hindmarsh Shire Council Mayor, Cr Ron Ismay said “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.”    

Cr Ismay added, “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 foundations complete, the tower is expected to arrive from the fabricator later in the month. Delivered in three pieces, it will be clad onsite prior to erection. The internal and external art activation will commence once construction is completed. 

For more information, please contact Simon Landrigan, Manager Project Management Office, on 03 5391 4444 or email slandrigan@hindmarsh.vic.gov.au. 

Monica Revell
Chief Executive Officer

Pictured left to right: Bernard Young, James Voller and Llew Schilling