Artists appointed to restore public art to Hughes Shops


Released 07/09/2018

Minister for the Arts, Gordon Ramsay MLA has today announced that artists Suzie Bleach and Andy Townsend have been chosen to create a sculpture for Hughes Shops to replace the original sculpture that was stolen in 2016.

“When the much-loved bronze sculpture, Stepping Out (The Lady in Pearls)by Giovanna Ianniello and Gerard Murphy, originally installed at Hughes shops in 1997, was stolen in 2016, the local community was devastated. Many people said it was like losing a loved one, she was such a part of the community,” Minister Ramsay said.    

Stepping Out was unable to be recast as the moulds no longer exist, so a community consultation with Hughes residents was undertaken in August and September 2017 to identify what locals felt would be a suitable replacement for the beloved Lady in Pearls.  

“The design by Bleach and Townsend meets the Hughes community’s wish for an artwork that is nostalgic, imaginative and playful. Hughes residents also have a strong sense of connection to their natural surroundings which is also represented in the artwork – a single bronze female figure, cradling a large bird.

“Bleach and Townsend are highly regarded nationally and have strong connections to Canberra. Most recently, they exhibited artworks locally at Floriade in 2017 and at the Contour 556 sculpture exhibition in 2016. A number of their works are also in the ACT Government public art collection including La Perouse located at the Red Hill Shops,” Minister Ramsay said.

Public artwork is a fundamental part of cultural life in Canberra, and each piece becomes part of our community.

“The Government has been working hard to ensure that any new artwork reflects the values of Hughes residents and can not only fill the gap left by Stepping Out, but can create its own place in our shared history.”

The new artwork will be developed over the coming months and is expected to be installed in early-2019. It will feature reinforced footings and fixings to mitigate against theft.

  • Concept images of the new sculpture are available on request

- Statement ends -

Gordon Ramsay, MLA | Media Releases

Media Contacts

Name Phone Mobile Email


«ACT Government Media Releases | «Minister Media Releases