Neighbourhood stories are presented in the concrete kerbing along Gladys Street in Clarence Gardens.

Street Stories

Artist: John Denlay
Project cost: $1,990
Location: Gladys Street, Clarence Gardens
Installed: 2020 

Short stories and poems have been written in the face of the kerbing when the concrete was poured just like many others have opportunistically left their mark in the wet concrete.

Street stories has create a greater sense of place for the local neighbourhood with Gladys Street residents embracing the opportunity to share stories from their street.

'Street stories' is the brainchild of artist and Mitcham hills resident John Denlay, who etched stories into new kerbing. As part of the project, John met residents to find out more about the street and its history as a working orchard.

Six stories were condensed into snippets and drawn into wet concrete during road renewal works. One story tells of a resident who used to collect fruit and vegetables from her neighbours to make jam and preserves.

"I enjoyed hearing from residents about how much they value good neighbours, and how good neighbours create a sense of family in a neighbourhood."