Arriving in 2014 and appearing again in 2024, ‘Giraffa Signus’ have returned to their Kimbriki home after extensive refurbishment by artist Sandy Bliim. A favourite with staff, school groups and regular Kimbriki users, these towering sentinels embody the Kimbriki mantra RE-THINK | REDUCE | RE-USE | RECYCLE.
As part of the 2014 Artist in Residency Project, these large-scale sculptures were constructed from the materials extracted from the Kimbriki site. Specifically, wooden ladders and metal road work signs, diverting them for reuse before potential landfill destination. By 2024, the weather, termites and a small flood had taken their toll on the wooden structural elements of the mum and bub giraffes, which had begun to crumble. Stripping off the panels, rust protection and a little panel beating, and we were ready to reconstruct.
The call went out to the fabulous Kimbriki crew who salvaged out eight aluminium, fibreglass or plastic A frame and extension ladders to serve as our new structural skeletons.
Working in the open next to the rock crusher presented its own challenges. So a quieter site was found beside Weighbridge D, and the little family began to take shape. With the help of Matt, Andrew, Jono, Nic and Steve, Mum and Bub Giraffe rose up and stood proudly at their new increased heights. Sadly, cyclonic winds saw them crash to the ground again where they stayed until their new permanent site was prepared. Installation took place without a hitch and Mumma and Bub now stand as the official Kimbriki welcome committee.
As part of the 2024 Kimbriki Open Day and 50th Birthday Celebrations, Kimbriiki ran ‘NAME THE GIRAFFES’ Competition. Thank you to the many fabulous entries received, we are proud to announce the Winning entry went to Jane Gillingham with names: KIMBA AND RIKI
Jane has won a Worm Farm, Kimbriki Gift Pack and Boomerang Bag.
