With a natural attraction to the landscape of the Blue Mountains, Simon has created an enduring body of work inspired by the colours, textures, and shapes of its escarpments. Commissioned by Inner West Council to develop an artwork for a small plaza linking Parramatta Road and the surrounding residential backstreets, it is a response to community consultation, calling for a greener and ‘softer’ aesthetic.

A master ceramicist, Simon developed specialised glazes and colours to recreate the rugged rockface of the mountains. In collaboration with First Nations elders, he developed a white ochre to reflect the Leichhardt area, and the red ochres were drawn from the mountains region. He incorporated organic additives like ash, scallops, and crushed oyster shells to mirror the rock forms and create a connection to nature.

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Tilt supported Simon by assisting with the detailed design, fabrication of panel frames, project management and installation.

• Project Consultation
• Detailed Design inc. CAD, structural engineering review and certification, construction documentation
• Fabrication inc. shop drawings and procurement
• Installation, site documentation and handover
• Project Management

The plaza is a destination of sanctuary in a busy city, connecting Petersham’s quiet backstreets. For locals, it offers a thoroughfare or a place of rest and social interaction. The mural creates a stunning backdrop against the soft landscaping and its gnarly outline grounds the space, offering refuge, and encouraging reflection and connection to the landscape and to its ancient history.