Splashes of colour are creeping into Canberra’s city centre as preparation begins for DESIGN Canberra 2018, which launches in under a month.

Geometric Shadows – 12 Noon by Yanni Pounartzis is the first installation in the festival’s new City Art Program and can be seen on the corner of Petrie Plaza and Bunda Street.

Pounartzis has responded to this year’s festival theme of geometry, capturing a moment in time by turning shadows from buildings, signs and nature into geometric art and asking passers by to take a second look and pay attention to the urban structures that go unnoticed in daily life.

This work is one of 15 pieces by local designers and artists which will be showcased on pavements, windows and bus shelters throughout the festival, placing the works of artists front and centre in our city streets. Congratulations to all selected artists and thanks to the amazing businesses who have supported the project. Keep your eye out for designs by these artists as they pop up throughout the city for the festival

You’ll also have the opportunity to vote for your favorite piece during the people’s choice awards. An Instagram competition will run from 5-23 November. Snap a picture of your favorite artwork, upload it to Instagram, follow @designcanberrafestival and tag it with #cityartcbr2018 for your chance to win a design lovers package from festival partners including restaurants, bars and shops.

The City Art project is supported by the ACT Government through the City Renewal Authority City Grants Program. Transport Canberra has supported the project by making available two iconic bunker bus shelters, originally designed in 1974 by Clem Cummings.