If you find yourself wandering through the heart of Sydney, make sure to take a detour through Market Row and Mullins Street. Here, you will find three fire exits transformed into vibrant artworks, courtesy of the talented artist Callum Morton.
These colorful, tiled creations, collectively titled “In Through the Out Door,” are the latest addition to the City of Sydney’s City Art collection, bringing a splash of creativity to these hidden corners.
The Inspiration Behind the Artwork
Morton’s intricate tile patterns draw inspiration from some of Sydney’s most iconic landmarks. The geometric designs echo the exterior shells of the Sydney Opera House, the ornate floor of the Queen Victoria Building, Sol LeWitt’s striking mural in Australia Square’s foyer, and the cheerful rays of Luna Park’s entrance.
Each door tells a story, blending these familiar motifs into a new, cohesive design that captures the essence of Sydney.
“Each door is specifically designed using a range of patterns I collected as I moved through the city, collapsed and reassembled as a new design,” Morton explains.
This method of deconstructing and reimagining patterns creates a dialogue between the artwork and the city’s architecture, inviting viewers to see their surroundings in a new light.
Transforming the Mundane into the Extraordinary
Laneways often go unnoticed, serving as mere backdrops for city life—places for fire escapes, service access, and rubbish collection. But Morton sees them differently.
“Hidden laneways can be spaces to observe the overlooked and unadorned fabric of city life,” he says. “They are the place of fire escapes, service access and rubbish collection, workers taking breaks, out-of-the-way cafes, and those among us who are looking for a temporary sanctuary.”
“In Through the Out Door” reimagines these functional spaces as grand entrances, infusing them with color and energy. The vibrant tiles replace the gritty, utilitarian feel with a sense of wonder and discovery.
The artwork encourages passersby to pause and appreciate the beauty in the everyday, transforming ordinary fire exits into extraordinary portals.
A Collaborative Effort
The project was chosen through a competitive call-out to both local and international artists. This rigorous selection process ensures that the City of Sydney’s public art collection remains diverse and dynamic.
“Colours and patterns are such a clever way to breathe life into laneways, a find for people exploring forgotten pockets of the city centre,” says Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore AO.
“Nestled between Clarence and York streets, these works probe an unconscious memory of familiar icons across the city.”
The public art component of the city’s transformation is curated by Barbara Flynn, who oversees the integration of art into Sydney’s evolving landscape.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to revitalize the city centre, including significant public domain upgrades and the pedestrianisation of George Street.
Professor Callum Morton collaborated with Monash Art Projects and Gorilla Constructions to bring “In Through the Out Door” to life. This teamwork highlights the importance of collaboration in creating public art that resonates with the community and enhances the urban environment.
Meet the Artist: Callum Morton
Callum Morton is no stranger to creating impactful public art. An internationally renowned artist, Morton is a Professor of Fine Art at Monash Art, Design and Architecture.
His work often explores themes of architecture and the built environment, using installations and sculptures to provoke thought and dialogue.
Morton has exhibited his work extensively, both in Australia and internationally. His solo shows include exhibitions at the Santa Monica Museum of Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney, the Indian Triennale in New Delhi, and the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art in Melbourne.
In 2007, Morton represented Australia at the Venice Biennale with his work “Valhalla,” a scale model of his childhood home.
His public projects are equally impressive. They include “Hotel” on the EastLink freeway and “Monument Park” in Melbourne, the pavilion “Grotto” in Tilburg, the Netherlands, and “Sisyphus” in Silkeborg, Denmark.
Each project showcases Morton’s ability to transform spaces and engage the public in unexpected ways.
In addition to his public artworks, Morton has also designed sets for major productions by the Melbourne Theatre Company, Ranters Theatre, and Chunky Move. His versatility as an artist is evident in the wide range of his projects and his ability to bring a unique vision to each one.
Morton is represented by Roslyn Oxley9 Gallery in Sydney and Anna Schwartz Gallery in Melbourne. His affiliation with these prestigious galleries further underscores his status as a leading figure in contemporary art.
Exploring Sydney’s Newest Artistic Addition
Next time you’re in the city centre, take a moment to explore Market Row and Mullins Street. Look beyond the hustle and bustle to find Morton’s vibrant doors, and let yourself be drawn into the colorful patterns and intricate designs.
These artworks are more than just decorative—they are an invitation to see Sydney through a different lens, to appreciate the hidden beauty in its urban fabric.
“In Through the Out Door” is a reminder that art can be found in the most unexpected places. It encourages us to slow down, to observe, and to find joy in the everyday.
So, whether you’re a local or a visitor, take a detour through these laneways and discover the magic that Callum Morton has created.
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