Join us for the book launch of Lachlan Macdowall’s BLOCK TOWN, a visual ethnography of security architecture in Melbourne.
In the aftermath of a devastating series of vehicle attacks, rows of concrete blocks were installed around the city’s landmarks, ringing its major streets, shopping malls and stations. Initially an emergency measure, these forms of crude, defensive architecture remained in place for seven years, becoming part of the everyday life of the city.
Through stark cinematic black and white images, BLOCK TOWN traces how the alien geometry and abrasive surfaces of the blocks became part of the fabric of the city, echoing the gridded streets of the colonial era. Over time, the protective arrays became walls for graffiti, street furniture for gatherings and memorials of crime scenes.
Speakers
Dan Sibley, artist
Angela Connor, Senior Curator, Museum of Australian Photography
Phoebe Whitman, Senior Lecturer in Interior Design, RMIT
With a response from the author.
🗓️ 5-6.30pm AEDT, Thursday 15 October 2026
📍Biosciences 1, Building 123
87 Tin Alley University of Melbourne Parkville Campus
Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/urban-visual-dialogues-5-block-town-book-launch-tickets-2002923592382
