The Council's fifth Quadrennial Public Artwork nears completion

With the unveiling of Rain less than a week away, the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters is inviting the community to go behind the scenes and discover the story behind its fifth Quadrennial Public Artwork.

Local art and design team Wills Projects, led by Laura Wills and Will Cheesman, have been commissioned to create the Council's fifth Quadrennial Public Artwork. Their artwork, Rain, is now nearing completion ahead of its installation on Osmond Terrace, at the intersection with William Street in Norwood. 

To help residents and visitors learn more about the project, the Council has launched The Story of Rain, a video series that captures the journey from concept to installation.

Filmed throughout the life of the project, the series shares the thinking, creativity and collaboration behind Rain, offering a unique insight into the process of delivering a major public artwork.

Watch episode 3: Taking Shape

As part of the Council's longstanding Quadrennial Public Art Program, Rain continues a commitment to commissioning significant artworks that enhance public spaces, celebrate creativity and contribute to the City's cultural identity.

The project brings together a wide range of collaborators, including Kaurna consultants, writers, entomologists, lighting designers, glass-casting artists, fabricators and engineers, all working together to bring the artwork to life.

Supporting the project, the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters secured a $100,000 grant from CreateSA through the Government of South Australia, towards the delivery of its fifth Quadrennial Public Artwork.

About Rain

Inspired by the local rain moth, Rain explores themes of place, life cycles, time and connection to nature.

The sculpture features wing-like forms elevated above the ground, layered with patterns inspired by natural camouflage and delicate lace-like details found in the environment.

At night, illuminated elements beneath the artwork will create a galaxy-like effect, suggesting caterpillars and hidden life below the surface while evoking the wonder of the night sky.

A supporting fable is also being developed to help share and interpret the artwork's story with the community.

Follow the journey

Visit the Council website to watch the video series and learn more about Rain, including the project timeline, installation location, funding details and the history of the Council's Quadrennial Public Art Program.

Rain is also featured in the 2026 SALA Festival guide. For more exhibitions, workshops, artist talks and creative experiences taking place across the City during SALA, visit the Council website and explore the full SALA in NPSP program.