Ceramic Wall Mural

Amidst the modern architecture of 1 Elizabeth Street, the Ceramic Wall Mural stands as a vibrant echo of the past. This isn’t just any wall; it’s a resurrected masterpiece, a fusion of 1960s artistry and contemporary reimagining. Originally gracing the lobby of the former P&O headquarters at 55 Hunter Street, the Ceramic Wall Mural has been given a new life just meters from its original home. Commissioned from artist-designer Douglas Annand in 1963, the mural was part of a larger installation. It included a glass screen and a suspended ‘Celestial Globe’, now residing in the Powerhouse Museum. The mural itself was comprised of 600 blue-glazed tiles, depicting sea creatures, ships, and abstract forms. When the original building was demolished in 2017, about two-thirds of these tiles were salvaged. They form the heart of this reimagined artwork. Annand was meticulous in his craft. Each tile is individually designed and hand-crafted, showcasing his dedication to technical perfection. He honed his skills at the Wunderlich Industries workshops, experimenting with various glazes. The Ceramic Wall Mural wasn’t just a technical marvel. It also represented a continuation of Annand’s fascination with maritime themes, harking back to Art Deco design. This reimagined version is smaller than the original. Some elements have been replaced with new interpretations. Notably, the central mermaid sculpture remains. Originally, it was surrounded by six smaller “mer-people” representing regions served by P&O: America, Africa, Arabia, East Asia, South Asia, and the United Kingdom. These figures, while reflective of their time, are now considered culturally insensitive. To address this, artist Stevie Fieldsend, known for her work with glass and resin, was commissioned to create contemporary interpretations of these figures. Working with precinct artist Mikala Dwyer and the Annand estate, Fieldsend’s glass forms offer a modern perspective while maintaining the original arrangement around the central mermaid. Douglas Annand, a prominent figure in Australia’s Art Deco movement, had a long-standing relationship with P&O. He designed everything from menu cards to posters, shaping the company’s image. He even designed murals for two P&O cruise liners. The Ceramic Wall Mural is a testament to his artistic vision and his enduring legacy. It stands as a unique blend of history and contemporary art, offering a glimpse into the past while embracing the present.