Freshwater Mussels and Moon Shadows I & II

Philippa Kelly

Title: Freshwater Mussels and Moon Shadows I & II

Artist/s: Philippa Kelly

Year: 2024

Site: Whiteman Park Station

Location Detail: Sculptures are located in two clusters of three, in garden beds to the west of playground, south of the bus interchange.

Medium: Marble, concrete, stainless steel, Moora stone

Description:

Mysterious and resilient, Freshwater Mussels have been cleaning our waterways, sight unseen, for over 200 million years. They form part of an ancient system of renewal in perfect synchronicity with nature and the cosmos. Enlarged and created in white quartz to illuminate their contribution and significance, the mussels' unique shape invites passersby to stop, observe and breathe. Shadows from the moon are laid out on the ground beneath them, reflecting time and the starry night sky on the water’s surface.

Western Australia has its own endemic Freshwater Mussel species, Westralunio carteri. They play a pivotal role in ensuring the health of the river ecosystem. Freshwater mussels are found throughout wetland areas including the Swan River catchment, and within the Gnangara Mound springs, upon which this area is located, one of Perth’s major sources of drinking water. Freshwater mussels have a close relationship with local fish species as they release tiny larvae which clamp onto the fins of fish to disperse their young throughout the waterways.

Westralunio carteri is listed as vulnerable under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (WA) and Internationally as a threatened species. Mussel numbers have declined from salt pollution and a drying climate, for example at the nearby Mussel Pool there are currently no living specimens found in the area.