By PEACE IJIYERA
GIVING Morwell a facelift, one mural at a time.
The Waterhole Creek underpass has been revamped, with a First Nations inspired mural giving the area a fresh look.
The project is being delivered by Latrobe City Council in collaboration with local artist Charles Solomon. The aim is to make the area safer, welcoming and vibrant.
Aligning with Latrobe City Council’s Art in Public Spaces Policy, recognising the benefits of art and creative works being in public spaces for community wellbeing, the project began through community engagement, and the mural recognises the Brayakaulung people of the Gunaikurnai Nation. The design had input from GLaWAC and The Gathering Place.
Bradley Brown, Erika Brown and Terry Hayes were the painters on ground when the Express went to see the developments.
Mr Brown is an experienced artist and proud Gunaikurnai, Bidwal, Gunditjmara man, from Bairnsdale.
“I’ve been an artist for about 19 years, it’s something I love to do,” he said.
“Art is a love and passion of mine, but it has a deeper meaning as well, spiritual meaning and connection to Country, and just passion and love for the community”.
Mr Brown explained that before the painting began, the walls, already covered with layers of paint, had to be primed and prepped.
While the mural was being completed, Mr Brown said they’d “been getting a lot of good reports from people walking past”. He highlighted the power of art sparking conversations and connection.
Mr Brown said that his life experiences and desire to inspire the next generation influence all his art pieces.
The title of the Waterhole Creek mural is ‘Rise and Shine’. With a sun in the mural, the concept is derived from Bible verse, Isaiah 60:1.
“It represents … rising up, especially the next generation. Speaking life into them, for them for them to rise up and shine,” Mr Brown said.
Mr Brown explained that he wants this mural to encourage young people to “rise up out of addictions, racism, poverty … and get a passion and love for life.”
The mural will be accompanied by a story which can be read as people pass by.
Mr Brown spoke about the symbolic and spiritual aspects of the artwork, from the gum leaves to the flowing water and colours incorporated; it all represents the connection to Country.
He shares his passion for art with his daughter, Erika. She hopes the mural represents more than just art on a wall for people in the community.
“I hope they feel connected, I hope it brings them peace when they walk by. Knowing that an Indigenous artist is here telling a story … I hope that they respect it,” she said.
Latrobe City Mayor, Sharon Gibson said she loves celebrating creativity within locals.
“It’s great to see community ideas turned into something people can enjoy every day,” she said.
“The mural celebrates the many cultures that make Latrobe City special and reflects the diversity of our community.
“It’s exciting to see this space transformed into something bright, welcoming and full of colour that residents and visitors can enjoy for years to come.”
The Waterhole Creek Mural is expected to be complete by the end of the month.
