Where Eels Lie Down
Author: Parramatta Square
Date: 8th Aug 2023
An exciting new landmark public artwork, commissioned by City of Parramatta has been unveiled in Parramatta Square.
Honouring the history of the eel and the Dharug connection to Parramatta River, Reko Rennie's Where Eels Lie Down, is a First Nations artwork standing at an astonishing 7.5-metre's tall taking more than 5000 hours to create, depicting the scene of two eels playing as they rise from the ground.
This amazing sculpture fabricated by Urban Art Projects includes painted aluminium and granite panels also features blue sequenced lighting signifying tidal variations of the Burramattagal; the dynamic effect acting as a beacon for activity against the night skies.
Reko Rennie said "This project provides an opportunity to create a public artwork that speaks to the significant history of Aboriginal culture and identity of the Parramatta region in a contemporary context".
Much like the playful eels, the artwork marks a place of people, local and afar, to enjoy each other's company, stories and experiences together.
Photo credit: Document Photography