Explore the Design of this artwork, Fairfield Industrial Dog Object.
Erected in April 2000 and created by Ian Sinclair, Jackie Staude, David Davies and Alistair Knox, the work is constructed from recycled hardwood, standing 5.5 metres tall and approximately 8 metres long.  The theme was chosen in order to "represent the precinct's dog-loving community", and it was originally designed to interact with viewers – sensors allowed it to respond the presence of onlookers by wagging its tail, wiggling its ears and lighting up at night.According to the artists (from Creating Place: Public Art Policy and Practice in Darebin):FIDO responds to the friendly, busy Fairfield Village: conceptually, practically and literally. The usage of materials, the form and the interactive nature of the work are all designed to enhance the sense of community and enjoyment of a unique place. Our Fairfield Industrial Dog Object will be a unifying force, the "pet" that belongs to the community and yet responds to and is remembered by visitors. FIDO watches over the shopping strip, is recognisable from a distance and captivating up close. Through the use of sensors and digital control it is able to be activated in fascinating and unpredictable ways. The selected site at the corner of Wingrove Avenue and Station Streets has enabled us to design a work of monumental scale which will have a strong presence, provide a unifying focus and become a landmark identified with Fairfield.
The original ability to interact (including talk) with onlookers ceased to function prior to 2006, at which point the council was considering whether or not to upgrade the mechanism.
hardwood Fairfield Ian Sinclair, Jackie Staude, David Davies and Alistair Knox Public Art