Kaniva Water Tower Project Kaniva and District Progress Association is presently seeking funding to paint the Kaniva Water Tower as a unique and compelling public art project. This project aims to highlight the story of the underground water, the Territory Water Aquifer, and the inland sea that once shaped the Big Desert and Little Desert National Parks. This historical and environmental tale is closely tied to the development of agriculture in the region, making it a story only Kaniva can tell. This project was identified as a priority by the Kaniva & District Progress Association (KDPA) in our 2020 strategic plan, and although unsuccessful in previous grant applications, we are optimistic about this opportunity and are continuing to re-submit our application.
A Unique Story for Visitors and Locals The Kaniva Water Tower project is not only about art but also about education and civic pride. The story of the aquifer and the inland sea is something that many travellers may not know, and it offers a rare glimpse into the environmental history of the region. Through augmented reality (AR), we plan to expand on this story, offering an interactive educational experience on how the aquifer works, appealing to both environmental science enthusiasts and the general public. In addition, we have a number of digital resources ready to embed in this project and we hope to later incorporate educational components such as a water pipe fence showing annual rainfall data patterns and fun elements to ensure interactivity of the site, along with a simple mural on the water tower shed.
Community-Driven and Timely This community-driven initiative aims to boost local visitation while fostering civic pride. Public art, when done through best practice methods, has proven mental health benefits, enhancing community wellbeing. Kaniva’s water tower is an ideal candidate for this project, especially as the town prepares to receive a potable water supply through this very tower—a timely opportunity to tell the story of water in the region.
Linked to Kaniva’s Environmental and Cultural Heritage The story of the water tower ties into Kaniva’s Wetlands & Fauna Park and the native animals and birds that thrive in the area. Additionally, the nearby Little Desert National Park holds historical significance as Australia's first conservation project.
Enhancing Visitor Experience The water tower is located near a popular children’s play area, picnic spot, and the famous Silo Art , making it a key hot spot for both locals and visitors. The area is also the start of the Sheep Art Trail, which has successfully drawn visitors and supported local businesses, creating employment and investment opportunities.
Support, Partnerships and Artist We are proud to have received letters of support from Grampians Water, West Wimmera Shire Council, Wimmera Catchment Authority, and the Purple Starfish. Western Victoria has some fabulous large scale mural artists and we have selected renowned artist Jimmi Buscombe, known for his anamorphic 3D works, including his viral wombat mural. Jimmi’s collaborative approach to community art and his diverse portfolio make him the perfect fit for Kaniva’s Water Tower Project.
Expanding Our Arts Legacy Kaniva has a long-standing commitment to community-led arts, having pioneered the Sheep Art project in 2010 and presently undertaking the social history Wiregrassarts project. This water tower project will build on that legacy, adding another layer to the vibrant arts experience in town. Additionally, we plan to incorporate digital elements, such as interactive water pipe displays showing rainfall data, to make the site engaging and educational.
Financial Backing and Contingency Plans We have been selling Australian Silo Art Calendars for 3 years now and have enough money to be able to make the financial contribution to submit the grant application. This has been made possible through the generosity of Annette and Eric Green of Australian Silo Art who donate these funds specifically towards creating new public art projects or improving amenities around public arts. In the event that we are not able to proceed with the water tower, we have a number of other walls that could be painted. These would be painted to also feature unique stories to this area such as pioneer James Fry, Little Desert Flora and Percy Leason Wiregrass cartoons. With these projects, the idea would be that our local artists would be mentored by Jimmi Buscombe to create collaborative pieces under Jimmi's guidance increasing their skills and building on the community arts strength of the Sheep Art Trail. We have previously submitted applications for these arts projects, all of which have been unsuccessful to date. If you are interested in being part of this project or donating to it, please do not hesitate to contact us via this website.