Kaniva Silo Art: A Canvas in the Countryside

The Kaniva Silo Art stands as a striking example of rural revitalization through art. Completed in October 2020, the project saw Melbourne-based artist David Lee Pereira, with assistance from Jason Parker, transform the towering GrainCorp silos into a vibrant canvas. The artwork pays homage to the nearby Little Desert National Park, showcasing its unique flora and fauna. The silos depict an Australian hobby falcon, a small but swift bird of prey, alongside the delicate forms of Scented Sun orchids and Salmon Sun orchids. These species are native to the Little Desert, which stretches from the Victorian border to Dimboola and is known for its botanical significance and diverse wildlife. The choice of subject matter reflects a desire to celebrate and raise awareness of the region's natural heritage. The silos themselves have a history rooted in the region's agricultural industry. Constructed in 1939, the Kaniva silos were part of a larger program to build grain storage facilities along railway lines. These Geelong Concrete Silos, of which 91 were built in Victoria between 1935 and 1950, helped to reduce grain losses from weather, rodents, and insects. The Kaniva silos were in operation until 2014, after which the GrainCorp receival center was moved to Lillimur. Today, the Kaniva Silo Art serves as the western gateway to the Wimmera Mallee Silo Art Trail, a 600km route connecting small towns through public art. The silos are located near Band Park, offering visitors a pleasant space with picnic facilities and a children's play area. The site is accessible and includes public toilets and a pedestrian gate.