• Intergenerational Artwork Unveiled at Resthaven Head Office

    Matilda and Polly reading with the statueToday, a public artwork at Resthaven Head Office was officially opened by Resthaven Board President, Mark Porter.

    ‘The sculpture, located on the corner of Greenhill Road and Bartley Crescent, Wayville, is Resthaven’s gift to the local community. It is made entirely from sheet metal, and depicts a life-sized scene of intergenerational engagement,’ says Resthaven CEO, Richard Hearn.

    ‘A garden bench invites passers-by to sit for a moment underneath the trees, and watch the world go by, alongside the sculpted characters.’

    ‘This is the third such sculpture Resthaven has commissioned local artist, Gerry McMahon, to create.’

    ‘Two similar intergenerational sculptures are located at Resthaven Mount Gambier (opened 2011) and Resthaven Port Elliot (opened 2015).’

    Launch of intergenerational sculpture‘We love Gerry’s work, and were excited to commission our third, and most detailed, sculpture yet.’
    Gerry says, ‘I used my own elderly parents and children as models in the process of developing the characters. I feel there is a real connection between the old and the young.’

    ‘From my own experience, I have a direct understanding of caring for an older person, and gained a direct understanding and consideration of the important work of carers when my father was hospitalised due to a fall. The sculpture also celebrates the work of carers – through little things, like a love heart in the carer’s head band to indicate the care given.’

    ‘I wanted to give a sense of love in the project, with a connection between each of the characters, playing hopscotch, reading a book, and referencing items from the area, such as the tennis racquet to the Parklands opposite, where tennis is played.

    ‘I am really pleased with how it has come together.’

    Richard says, ‘The themes Gerry has portrayed in this work perfectly align with Resthaven’s own values of trust, dignity and choice.’

    ‘We wanted the work to convey the importance of the roles of older people, and what they give back to society, along with the significant work that carers do to make those needing support in their later years more comfortable.’

    David Pisoni MP, Gerry McMahon, and Mayor of Unley Lachlan Clyne‘The project’s intergenerational theme has relevance to the previous use of the site, which was formerly part of Annesley College. It reflects the work of the school, educating generations of young women.’

    ‘Gerry’s sculptures always generate much admiration and interest within Resthaven and the community, and this is no exception.’

    ‘We look forward to working with Gerry again in the future, and continuing to see the positive response to his artwork from members of the public.’

    Pictured from top: Matilda and Polly reading with the statue; the launch draws a crowd; David Pisoni MP, the artist Gerry McMahon, and Mayor of Unley Lachlan Clyne.