Images and words by Tian Li
TAFE Ultimo campus is the biggest TAFE in NSW, located in the vibrant heart of Sydney, near Central Station and various bus routes.
A photos day on campus allowed us to experience the history and educational atmosphere of this traditional organization.
Building A was designed by Government Architect WE Kemp, with construction starting in 1890 and finishing in 1892. It is one of the oldest buildings at TAFE Ultimo campus and is a significant heritage site. Here, we are not just receiving an education but immersing ourselves in the long tradition and history of the campus.
This photo was taken from the back of Building A. At first glance, the mirrored orientation of the letters S and C may seem a bit odd. However, if you imagine stamping it on a piece of paper, the letters would appear as STC, which stands for Sydney Technical College, the former name of TAFE NSW in 1891.
From this side of building A, we can see beautiful colourful windows like a church style, and I believe each picture in the windows tells a story.
For example, the one on the bottom left, which clearly depicts a mother with her child, might tell a story or have a chat.
One of the entrances of Building D, the library, is one of the most frequently visited places by students.
I really enjoy the tarpaulin outside, which adds a contemporary touch to the building, creating flexible shadows from the sunshine during the daytime on campus.
Walking along the grass path during break time, especially with the shadows via the sunshine, gives you a bit of refreshing quiet between the classes.
In the break area, there are lots of coffee tables, making it a great place to chat with your friends and classmates.
I really like this beautiful flower basket and wonder whether there’s soil underneath it, how often it needs to be watered to stay green and blooming, and whether it is one of the products from a TAFE gardening student.
In the middle of the break area at TAFE Ultimo campus this blooming plant (below), named Euphorbia milii, commonly known as the crown of thorns, is native to Madagascar and is associated with the legend of the crown of thorns worn by Jesus,
You can sense the arrival of spring and summer when it’s thriving.
This gallery corridor features paintings on both side walls and connects different parts of the campus.
At the other end, if you turn left, you will find several arched brick doors leading to Mary Ann St and other buildings across campus.
Featured image: Exploring the colours, textures and shapes of Ultimo TAFE.