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If you've driven through Mount Lagoon recently, chances are you’ve caught a glimpse of a curious, cheerful figure standing tall by the roadside ─ camera slung around his neck, head tilted back, and lips pursed in an eternal whistle.
This artwork is a playful sculpture, the work of internationally recognised South African artist Francois (Frank) van Reenen. Officially titled The Whistling Tourist, the sculpture is part of a series of stylised resin figures known for their smooth lines, minimalist charm, and sense of quiet humour.
While The Whistling Tourist has been featured in major exhibitions such as South Africa's Sculptures on the Cliffs, his placement here in the peaceful heights of Mt Lagoon feels perfectly at home. Set against a backdrop of bushland and big skies, the sculpture offers a moment of joy and light-heartedness to all who pass by.
“He makes you smile, even if you’re having a rough day,” says one local. “It’s like he’s reminding you to slow down and enjoy the view.”
The character, with his clean lines and childlike simplicity, captures the spirit of exploration and the joy of just being present ─ a quiet tourist soaking up the world around him. Van Reenen’s work is often nostalgic and whimsical; he creates figures that are both sculptural and deeply human.
The Mt Lagoon Whistler might not say a word, but his presence speaks volumes ─ about the power of art to brighten the everyday and the importance of small surprises in familiar landscapes.
If you've driven through Mount Lagoon recently, chances are you’ve caught a glimpse of a curious, cheerful figure standing tall by the roadside ─ camera slung around his neck, head tilted back, and lips pursed in an eternal whistle.
This artwork is a playful sculpture, the work of internationally recognised South African artist Francois (Frank) van Reenen. Officially titled The Whistling Tourist, the sculpture is part of a series of stylised resin figures known for their smooth lines, minimalist charm, and sense of quiet humour.
While The Whistling Tourist has been featured in major exhibitions such as South Africa's Sculptures on the Cliffs, his placement here in the peaceful heights of Mt Lagoon feels perfectly at home. Set against a backdrop of bushland and big skies, the sculpture offers a moment of joy and light-heartedness to all who pass by.
“He makes you smile, even if you’re having a rough day,” says one local. “It’s like he’s reminding you to slow down and enjoy the view.”
The character, with his clean lines and childlike simplicity, captures the spirit of exploration and the joy of just being present ─ a quiet tourist soaking up the world around him. Van Reenen’s work is often nostalgic and whimsical; he creates figures that are both sculptural and deeply human.
The Mt Lagoon Whistler might not say a word, but his presence speaks volumes ─ about the power of art to brighten the everyday and the importance of small surprises in familiar landscapes.
