Will Coles, a renowned street artist, has left an indelible mark on Sydney’s urban landscape with his unique and thought-provoking concrete sculptures.
His works, often hidden in plain sight, challenge viewers to reconsider their surroundings and the objects they encounter daily.
The Artist and His Medium
Will Coles is celebrated for his innovative use of concrete to create sculptures that blend pop culture and conceptual art. His pieces often depict everyday objects, such as squashed drink cans, balaclavas, and remote controls, reimagined in concrete. This choice of medium not only adds a sense of permanence to his works but also contrasts sharply with the ephemeral nature of traditional street art.
Will Coles’ street art is strategically placed throughout Sydney, often in locations that encourage interaction and contemplation.
Here are some specific spots where you can find his intriguing concrete sculptures:
Concrete Balaclavas
Newtown: Look for these pieces around King Street, particularly near the Newtown Train Station. The balaclavas are often placed on walls and in alleyways, blending into the urban fabric.
Surry Hills: You can find balaclavas near Crown Street, especially around the creative hubs and cafes. These pieces add an element of surprise to the bustling neighbourhood.
Squashed Drink Cans
Darlinghurst: These sculptures are scattered around Oxford Street, near bus stops and public benches. They mimic discarded cans, making them easy to overlook at first glance.
Glebe: Check out the areas around Glebe Point Road, where Coles’ drink cans are subtly integrated into the streetscape, often near parks and community spaces.
Concrete Gloves
Redfern: The concrete gloves can be found near Redfern Park and the surrounding streets. They are often placed on walls and ledges, inviting passersby to take a closer look.
Chippendale: In the creative precinct around Central Park, you can spot these gloves on building facades and in laneways, adding a touch of whimsy to the area.
Concrete Washing Machines
Redfern: One of the most notable pieces, a full-sized concrete washing machine, is located near the intersection of Redfern Street and Regent Street. This piece stands out due to its size and unexpected placement.
Exploring Beyond Sydney
While Sydney hosts a significant portion of Will Coles’ street art, his works can also be found in other cities and exhibitions:
Melbourne: Coles has placed several pieces in Melbourne’s laneways, particularly around Hosier Lane and Fitzroy. These areas are known for their vibrant street art scenes.
Brisbane: Look for his works in the Fortitude Valley and West End neighborhoods, where the local art community embraces street art.
Broader Catalogue of Works
Beyond the streets of Sydney, Will Coles’ work has been exhibited in various galleries and public art events. Some notable examples include:
Sculpture by the Sea: Coles has participated in this prestigious event, showcasing larger installations such as a giant concrete soy sauce container.
Memorial To The Unknown Armchair General: This piece, exhibited at the Hidden sculpture exhibition in Rookwood Cemetery, features a concrete lounge chair and a general’s cap, reflecting on themes of power and authority.
Gallery Exhibitions: Coles’ work has been featured in numerous gallery exhibitions, including those at the Brenda May Gallery and Art Equity in Sydney.
Will Coles’ street art offers a unique blend of humour, social commentary, and artistic innovation. His concrete sculptures, hidden throughout the city, encourage viewers to engage with their environment in new and unexpected ways. By exploring both his hidden street pieces and his broader body of work, one gains a comprehensive understanding of Coles’ artistic vision and the impact of his contributions to contemporary street art.