GuavaLime is inviting local South Australian artists to join a competition to transform ceilings and foyer wall panels and design a public art mural standing more than eight storeys high at the ART Apartments project in Flinders Street.

GuavaLime co-directors and architects, Michael Loucas and Con Zahos plan to begin construction next year.

They are offering six commissions to complete interior and exterior artworks for the new building, prizes in excess of $15,000, plus a sizable commission for ART’s distinctive external mural: 21m high by 7.5m wide mural on the exterior western wall of the building, providing a prominent visual motif for the surrounding area.

“’The ‘Art in the Heart’ competition aims to integrate the best of the State’s up and coming artists with the building architecture and will establish this development as an expressive collaboration of art and architecture in the city,” says Michael Loucas.

The 13-level complex at 242 Flinders St will showcase “the latest in cutting-edge design and sustainable architecture”.

Michael says the use of art in the development’s public spaces was a fundamental part of the design and a strong selling point of difference for buyers looking for a building with a unique, contemporary character.

“When we designed ART we wanted it to incorporate an aesthetic experience at every level and in every space,” he says. “We have commissioned selected artists and artisans in our architecture for more than 20 years. We’d like this project to encourage a sense of ownership in the local arts community and to reflect the budding vibrancy of this fantastic CBD location.

“This part of the city is experiencing a renaissance and we want artwork that reflects the positive elements of this East End lifestyle with the fantastic vibe and energy of inner city living.”