Wide angle view of rainbow-coloured shipping containers in Fremantle, Australia

© Michael R Evans/Shutterstoc

Fremantle adds a splash of colour

With the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras now in full swing, and the incredibly popular parade only days away, we’re taking a quick trip to Fremantle instead. That’s where you’ll find Marcus Canning’s ‘Rainbow’ - a nine-metre high and 19-metre long public art piece constructed from nine recycled sea containers, designed to be a universal symbol of hope and inspiration.

The rainbow flag, on the other hand, dates back to 1978; created by San Francisco-based queer artist Gilbert Baker. Each colour possesses its own meaning: red for life, orange for healing, yellow for sunlight, green for nature, blue for harmony and purple for spirit. These colours will likely be seen a great deal throughout Mardi Gras celebrations, and especially as many Sydneysiders flock to watch 200 mesmerising groups and floats roll past the streets for one glitzy, incredibly enjoyable party.