THE Arcadia Vale reservoir is turning heads and ruffling feathers in a good way, reimagined as a striking piece of public art celebrating the native powerful owl.
Hunter Water refurbishment works, which finished late last year, have extended the life of the reservoir to ensure it continues to provide safe, quality drinking water to homes and businesses for decades to come.
Now, thanks to local artist Jordan Lucky from Playstate's bold new mural, what was just a functional structure has spread its wings as creative drawcard.
The piece features a powerful owl, a species native to the area which is listed as vulnerable in NSW.
Mr Lucky said the fact the mural was proposed by the local community made the project even more meaningful.
"I felt incredibly lucky to design something for a community so deeply connected to its environment," he said.
"The concept draws on my own wildlife photography, with the trees and moon inspired by imagery captured right here in Arcadia Vale."
Hunter Water Infrastructure Delivery executive manager Justin Watts said the project shows how essential infrastructure can play a role in enriching neighbourhoods.
"The Arcadia Vale upgrades were about more than maintaining essential infrastructure, they were about creating something the community can be proud of," he said.
"Combining vital water upgrades with a vibrant mural, we're able to bring local stories to life, celebrate the natural environment, and foster community pride, while continuing to deliver safe and reliable water services."
The Arcadia Vale project is part of Hunter Water's broader approach to integrating art into essential infrastructure.
