HOTEL, Highway sculpture in Victoria, Australia.
The HOTEL is a steel sculpture that rises 20 meters along the EastLink freeway, mimicking the basic shape of a hotel building. The work consists of a minimalist steel frame fitted with concrete and glass panels that outline the silhouette of a large structure.
The artwork was built in 2007, marking a turning point in how public art funding began connecting with transportation infrastructure. It emerged as part of an initiative to reshape travel corridors and integrate artistic creations into everyday urban experiences.
The sculpture caught the attention of American band Violent Femmes, who featured it on their album Hotel Last Resort, linking Australian public art with international music culture. This connection shows how roadside artworks can resonate with artists across continents.
The sculpture is best viewed while driving northbound on the EastLink freeway between Greens Road and Bangholme Road. For a closer look, parking at nearby vantage points allows for a better appreciation of the work's scale and structure.
Despite its hotel appearance, the structure has no doors or windows designed for entry and stands isolated in open land. This contrast between expected functionality and actual inaccessibility creates a puzzling presence for travelers along the highway.
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