About the Artist
The Garden Guru (2026) was designed by Chris Scott of Brushcraft and fabricated from stainless steel by Brushcraft in collaboration with Spears Sheet Metal Works. The artwork uses a layered steel technique to create a sculptural form that shifts in and out of focus as viewers move around it, encouraging interaction and reflection.
About the Art
This stainless steel sculpture was created as part of the Alice Springs Town Council Public Art commitment to support and engage the local arts community of Mparntwe / Alice Springs. The artwork also serves as a tribute to Geoff Miers, recognising his long‑standing contribution to the local community and his deep care for the landscape.
A 3D scan of Geoff in a kneeling position was taken and digitally transformed into a series of individual two‑dimensional profiles. These profiles were laser‑cut from stainless steel plates and layered together to form a three‑dimensional sculpture. From certain viewpoints, the sculpture appears as a solid, life‑sized figure; from others, the form dissolves into space, revealing gaps between the steel layers.
As you move around the roundabout, the sculpture appears and disappears, offering a different visual experience at each entry and exit point.
About the Inspiration
The inspiration for The Garden Guru comes from a familiar and enduring local sight. Living on Lindsay Avenue, the artist observed Geoff over many years kneeling on the roundabout, wearing his signature hat, carefully tending to the plants and sharing practical gardening tips with students and passers‑by.
Since 1977, Geoff has played a significant role in the community of Mparntwe / Alice Springs. In 2003, with the assistance of his students, he helped transform the roundabout into a thriving garden of Sturt's Desert Peas, demonstrating the value of sustainable gardening practices in a harsh arid environment.
The artwork draws on the concept of movement and transformation. As the viewer moves, the form fades and re‑emerges, echoing the natural cycles of Central Australia — growth, flowering, dormancy and renewal. Through this shifting form, the sculpture reflects Geoff’s commitment to caring for the land and serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility to look after this place so it can continue to grow and flourish for generations to come.
📷Image / Photo Source: ASTC Photo Archives
📍East Side - Lindsay Avenue / Undoolya Road (roundabout)