Down an unremarkable industrial street in an artist’s studio, a special memorial to a Geelong icon is taking shape.
Sculptor, Louis Laumen, is carefully crafting a statue of the late Frank Costa, who holds a place in Geelong’s heart for his tireless philanthropy, role as Cats president and extensive business endeavours.
City of Greater Geelong Council, with contributions from the Costa family, Rory Costelloe and the Geelong Football Club, have funded the permanent tribute that will eventually call central Geelong home.
Using the method of Lost Wax Casting, Louis has spent hundreds of hours perfecting a ‘paper boy’ to reflect Mr Costa’s childhood selling newspapers.
He’s overcome the challenge of there being just a few photographs of ‘young Frank’ as inspiration, as well as getting the scale just right.
Having never met the local legend, Louis says his research, conversations with the Costa family and creative process have helped him get to know who Frank was and what he stood for.
“You’re living with him in a way over a period of time and… you have a sense of the presence of the fellow and especially of him as a boy,” heh says.
“You take all of that on board and you try to get that under your skin.”
As for the final product, Louis hopes the statue represents Mr Costa’s character and achievements.
“People will bring their feelings to the work and interpret it in whatever way they see fit,” says Louis.
“I hope that I’ve put enough charm into the work that people will say, “isn’t that lovely!”
The sculpture is expected to be installed in November on the corner of Ryrie and Moorabool Sts in front of the T&G Building.
