One of Sydney’s most memorable artworks, celebrating an iconic moment of Olympic history, has a new lease on life.
The Three Proud People mural in Newtown, in Sydney's inner west, has overlooked train commuters for almost two decades but had begun to show the signs of wear and tear in recent years.
Capturing one of the standout moments of the 1968 Olympic Games, the mural depicts Australian track athlete and silver medallist Peter Norman standing alongside African-American athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos.
The Three Proud People mural before its restoration. Source: Giulia Inga
The artwork is a recreation of a photo of the trio on the winners' podium in Mexico City, where the American athletes performed a ‘Black Power’ salute during the US national anthem.
Norman is pictured wearing a human rights badge in solidarity with his fellow athletes.
The moment, and the corresponding image, is considered one of the most iconic political statements in modern Olympic history - but led to Norman being ostracised by Australia's sporting bodies and other athletes.
Extending gloved hands skyward in protest, U.S. athletes Tommie Smith, center, and John Carlos stare downward during the playing of the U.S. national anthem. Source: AP
City of Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore has told SBS News the installation resonates strongly with those who have seen it up close and in person.
"Since its installation, the mural has been well regarded by the community with local residents calling for its heritage listing and protection. It has also been the subject of rallies to save local homes and attendances by the local and broader community, students, visitors and tour groups," she said.
The iconic Sydney tribute was painted just six weeks prior to the Sydney 2000 Olympics and greeted travellers passing from the city to Sydney’s inner-west and beyond.
Determined to ensure the artwork was preserved, the owner of the Sydney terrace on which the image is painted decided to take up the cause and mount a campaign for its restoration.
The move proved fruitful with the City of Sydney providing financial backing for a facelift. Artist Kelly Wallwork was tasked with carrying out the new paint job last week.
Upgrade works underway on the Three Proud People mural in Newtown, Sydney. Source: Giulia Inga
"(Creative group) 107 Projects applied for a City of Sydney grant to undertake urgent maintenance and conservation work to restore the mural to its former glory," Ms Moore said.
"The City is supporting 107 Projects with an $11,000 grant towards its restoration.”
An extra layer of sealant has been applied to ensure the restored tribute remains as timeless as its political message.
