The Stobie pole was named after its inventor James Cyril Stobie and first introduced in 1924. These unique power poles have played a crucial role in the distribution of electricity across the state, and have become an iconic canvas for artwork. The first poles were painted in 1963 in Prospect by artist Ann Newmarch.
We've created an online gallery of Stobie poles painted by talented community members. These are Stobie poles approved by SA Power Networks (SAPN).
Information on how to paint a stobie pole can we found here
Once painted, submit your photo/s, the name of the street, artist, the name of artwork along with any story or inspiration behind the artwork via the online form linked below.
- Stobie Pole Art Board Workshop at Bower Cottages Stobie Pole Art Board Workshop at Bower Cottages
- Stobie Pole Art Workshop at Ngutungka West Lakes Stobie Pole Art Workshop at Ngutungka West Lakes
- SA Power Networks Mini-documentary SA Power Networks Mini-documentary
- More Stobie Pole Art in the Community More Stobie Pole Art in the Community
Local community members created beautiful stobie pole art boards to help brighten up the stobie poles outside Bower Cottages at Semaphore Park.
Facilitated by community artist Mignon Clift, the art reflects the local region, including the lakefront, the beach and the nature around the lake.
Keep an eye out for these along Bower Road once completed.
Thanks to Tracey Davis and Matt Jorgensen for leading our Stobie Pole Art Workshop at Ngutungka West Lakes where 35 budding street artists enjoyed a virtual tour full of inventive ideas for street art.
Watch SA Power Networks' Mini-documentary outlining the history of Stobie poles in our state, featuring our City's very own Hindmarsh Greening.
Click the links below to view more beautiful stobie pole art from throughout our community.
The City of Charles Sturt supports a city wide place making approach to public art as people enjoy spending time in vibrant and culturally attractive public places. Opportunities for creative contributions from community groups and individuals in the form of community and public art installations are encouraged because they add to our city’s “sense of place”.
What you need to know:
Visit the SA Power Networks website to find out how to paint a Stobie Pole.
Before painting Stobie poles please consider:
- That the painted image shall not be higher than 2.0 metres from ground level.
- It is recommended that you consult directly with the resident adjacent to the proposed stobie pole prior to commencing the artwork to ensure they are comfortable with the proposed concept. As a courtesy, you should also engage with others residents along the street to inform them of the project.
- That the artwork being placed on the poles may not constitute commercial advertising e.g. business name or logo, political material, local messages or directions or any other material likely to offend.
- That you are responsible for any ongoing maintenance of the artwork and understand that if the artwork is tagged or damaged, SA Power Networks will paint over the artwork at their discretion. The use of an anti-graffiti coating should be considered once completed (if the work is to be on display long term).
- That the artwork shall not conceal or obstruct any signs, identification numbers or any SA Power Networks' equipment mounted on the stobie pole.
- That during the painting process, consideration be given to the safety of the participants and the public, e.g. use of orange cones, high visibility vests etc. where appropriate.
Further References
These Guidelines for best practice commissioning models and processes for public art are in accordance with:
The City of Charles Sturt Public Art Policy
Arts SA “Public Art making it happen” commissioning guidelines for local councils