Was it a giant dog or a wooden horse? The Fairfield Industrial Dog Object, affectionately known as FIDO, sparks that very question. Here we stand before this colossal canine, a quirky landmark in the heart of Fairfield. FIDO isn’t your typical neighborhood pet. This 5.5-meter-tall, 8-meter-long behemoth, crafted from recycled hardwood, is hard to miss. The Fairfield Industrial Dog Object arrived in Fairfield on April Fool’s Day in 2000. Part of the Darebin City Council’s Public Art Program, FIDO was meant to represent the dog-loving nature of the community.
Initially, FIDO wasn’t universally loved. A $50,000 price tag caused a stir. Some residents argued the funds could have been used for more essential services. The debate was fierce, even earning the title of one of Melbourne’s most fiery public art controversies. At one point, a group called the “Revolutionary Council for the Removal of Bad Art in Public Places” threatened to set FIDO ablaze. They even deemed it one of the six worst public art pieces in Australia.
But FIDO persevered, eventually winning the hearts of the locals. This monumental mutt was designed to be interactive. Sensors allowed it to wag its tail, wiggle its ears, and even light up at night in response to onlookers. There was even a hatch on FIDO’s underbelly that led to the inner workings of these interactive features. Sadly, these functions ceased working before 2006. The council debated whether to repair them, but FIDO’s charm endured even without the bells and whistles.
FIDO’s eventual acceptance is evident in its integration into the community. It became part of the Fairfield Traders Association’s logo in 2005. The council even titled their 2006 public art plan “Beyond Fido: Darebin City Council Public Art Strategy 2006 to 2015.” FIDO stands tall, a testament to public art’s power to transform a space and spark conversation. It’s more than just a big dog; it’s a symbol of Fairfield’s unique identity. A beloved landmark, a conversation starter, and a reminder that art can sometimes be found in the most unexpected places.