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Sunshine Blooms finds its permanent home on Jetty Road, Glenelg

21 July 2026

You may have noticed a splash of sunny colour brightening Jetty Road, Glenelg, despite the winter chill.

The eye-catching Sunshine Blooms sculpture, acquired from the 2026 Brighton Jetty Sculptures exhibition, has found its new home. You’ll find it on the western corner of Sussex Street and Jetty Road, beside the outdoor dining area near Gelatissimo.

Created by Middleton artist Chris Murphy of Blue Temper Ironworks, the artwork features a pair of oversized billy button (Pycnosorus) wildflowers, with the tallest flower standing 2.6 metres high.

Chris is “very happy” with its location. “I think it looks fantastic here, and I love the pop of colour on Jetty Road. It’s really cool.

“It’s fantastic that the Holdfast Bay Council is so proactive when it comes to sculpture as well.”

“I really like the idea of creating sculptures that bring people joy and will still be here long after I’m gone, continuing to inspire people and spread that joy.”

Artist Chris Murphy

In a fitting family connection, Chris’s 14-year-old son, Kalan, also took out the Youth Artist Award at this year’s Brighton Jetty Sculptures exhibition for his popular rustic drum kit, Recycled Rhythm.

Council’s Public Art Acquisitions Advisory Group has selected this striking steel sculpture by Middleton artist Chris Murphy of Blue Temper Ironworks to become part of the city’s public art collection.

This year, the group unanimously selected Murphy’s striking bright yellow steel sculpture. They were drawn to the work’s vibrant presence, visual appeal and strong conceptual qualities, as well as the way it actively engages viewers.

Sunshine Blooms now joins about 70 public artworks displayed throughout the City of Holdfast Bay, including sculptures, murals and integrated art installations.

Head to 45 Jetty Road, Glenelg, to snap a photo with the city’s cheerful new public artwork. And while you’re there, don’t miss Elysian Fields – the 21-metre-long avenue of towering flowers at the Brighton Road entrance to Jetty Road.

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