Marking the centenary of Alice Anderson's legacy, the City of Boroondara has appointed sculptor Lis Johnson to create a landmark public artwork honouring the pioneering mechanic, entrepreneur and Kew icon.
The permanent 110% life-size figurative bronze sculpture will stand in Petrie Square, Kew, just metres from the site of Anderson's groundbreaking motor garage, Australia's first female-owned and operated garage.
Following a highly competitive selection process, Lis Johnson was chosen for artistic excellence, extensive experience delivering bronze public artworks and the ability to bring historical stories to life through contemporary public art.
Mayor of Boroondara Wes Gault said the commission marks an important milestone in recognising one of Boroondara's most remarkable women.
"Alice Anderson was ahead of her time. She challenged conventions, created opportunities for women and built a successful business here in Kew at a time when few women had the chance to do so."
At just 22, Anderson broke new ground when she established an all-female motor garage in Kew in 1919. The first Australian woman to design and build a garage, she offered repairs, vehicle sales and driving lessons while creating opportunities for women as mechanics and chauffeurs in a male-dominated industry.
More than a century later, her legacy continues to inspire.
"We're thrilled to appoint Lis Johnson to create a lasting tribute to one of Boroondara's most inspiring figures," Cr Gault said.
"This artwork will help ensure Alice's story continues to be seen, shared and celebrated for generations to come."
Artist Lis Johnson said she is honoured to be entrusted with telling Alice's story through sculpture.
"Through my artwork, I want to capture Alice's spirit: her confidence, determination and trailblazing ambition. My hope is that everyone who passes through Petrie Square will feel her legacy and will be inspired by her story, just as I have been," Ms Johnson said. [RS1.1]
The $265,500 project is a partnership between Council and the Alice Anderson Memorial Project. The project's co-founder Samantha Lovrich said the community had rallied behind the project from day one.
"Our goal was to raise $120,000 but we raised an incredible $165,000! This includes over $48,000 from more than 90 supporters through the Australian Cultural Fund, $100,000 from our Foundation Donor, the Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce, and $15,000 from Community Bank Inner East. Our project partner, the City of Boroondara is contributing a further $100,000 to the project.
"Over these past months, we've spoken to friends and strangers, local traders, community organisations and businesses. We've been on the radio, in newspapers and at events. What has been most wonderful isn't just the money we've raised, it's the connections and community that have grown around Alice's story".
Samantha Lovrich said the appointment of an artist was a significant step towards realising the community's vision.
"We're thrilled to now have an acclaimed artist who will bring our vision to life, creating a beautiful and enduring tribute to Alice that will inspire locals and visitors for years to come."
Council thanks the Alice Anderson Memorial Project, Alice Anderson's family, donors, supporters and community advocates whose passion and generosity have helped bring the project to life.
To mark the centenary of Anderson's death, Council will deliver a program of events across September and October celebrating her life, achievements and enduring impact on Boroondara and beyond.
The completed artwork will become part of the City of Boroondara Art Collection, with installation expected in mid-2027.
Six people pose beside a sign promoting the Alice Anderson Memorial Project in Kew. To the left of the sign are artist Lis Johnson, Mayor of Boroondara Wes Gault and Alice Anderson Memorial Project co-founder Samantha Lovrich. To the right of the sign are Alice Anderson Memorial Project co-founders Tina Russo (standing) and Loretta Smith (seated), and Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce CEO Peter Jones.
