About the Art
The 1888 Benches, named for the year Alice Springs was first surveyed, operate as both functional seating and a narrative device that “maps” the town through embedded references. Each of the eight benches points to specific locations, stories and geological references—positioning Todd Mall within a broader cultural and environmental landscape.
There are seven benches along this north end of the Mall, placed either side of the road.
You may have noticed the benches looking extra fresh! - In early 2026, they underwent a tidy up, including each getting a fresh lick of paint, as part of Councils public art maintenance.
About the Inspiration
The work draws on early settler and surveying histories—referencing sites such as Arltunga goldfields, Glenn Annie Gorge and early trig stations on surrounding ranges. These layers evoke the colonial processes of measuring, naming and structuring place.
About the Artist
Elliat Rich’s practice often focuses on embedding place-based meaning into functional infrastructure, ensuring that everyday interactions with objects also become acts of cultural engagement.
📷Image / Photo Source: ASTC Photo Archives
📍Todd Mall - Todd St (north end, outside Alice Plaza)