On arrival at 171 Buckingham Street, Richmond, residents and guests experience a journey through a forest of curious illuminated totems. Made up of five distinctive sculptures, Forest is a series of placemaking markers located at the site’s pedestrian entries.

Each sculpture is inspired by the site’s original use—representing the core elements of Wiin (fire), Baan (earth), Yaemeneebik (water), Galk (wood), and Metal, names gifted in partnership with the traditional owners of the land, the Wurundjeri-willam people of the Kulin Nation. The journey through the five forms tells a story of the elements and their impact on climate change.

The permanent installation explores the interplay of light and shadow, texture and colour, scale and materiality. Contributing an authentic narrative to the site and context, Forest also serves as a compelling enhancement to the streetscape.