Central Queensland Schools Tour

It was great to pack the mural truck and head west to Central Queensland recently. The two week tour entailed working with six schools to complete seven murals, several workshops and stencil art demonstrations. Commencing in Barcaldine I then visited Muttaburra, Aramac, Jericho and Alpha. I had a fantastic time working with new students and on many occasions built on well established relationships with schools Aerograffix has become more than familiar with. The reception in each community was exceptional…I think I can almost claim famous in Central Queensland! I wish to extend my thanks to Mr Collins, all of the principals and staff for such great hospitality, Ozzie at the Accacia, John & Lynda at The Ironbark Inn, Anna’s place, Jeff and the tennis allstars, Mary and the market people at Jericho and Kez the Alpha pool pro. I have a mountain of photos from a very productive tour, here’s a glimpse.




Eagleby Youth Space

During July I facilitated five aerosol art workshops for Eagleby Youth Space. The participants were young people from the local area. This project was one of many different projects which I have undertaken with Eagleby Youth Space since working with this organisation in 2001, and I look forward to many more in the future. 

Brisbane Bayside State College

On Midwinter, I visited Brisbane Bayside State College to facilitate an introductory level workshop for the senior art class and explained the finer points of stencil and aerosol art. We had a five metre wall to work with and in the time frame of a day, we developed a concept, planned a design and applied it to the wall. The students now have a sense of ownership over the space as they chose the wording and concept. Miss Miles was great to work with and I hope the students continually Dare to be Wise. 


Camp Quality

Last week I visited Currimundi to deliver three stencil art workshops for the Senior Sibs Camp Quality Winter Camp. The workshops were well received and the young participants created an excellent array of artworks despite having no previous experience with the medium. I really enjoyed working with these young people and the staff and volunteers were tops too! This type of experience shows me laughter really is the best medicine. 


 

Richlands East State School

Over the past month I have conducted workshops with the great kids at Richlands East State School. I was assisted by Gloria, a parent and the students to complete the mural titled In Control. The theme was based on ‘Respectful, Resilience and Responsibility” with an analogy based on life’s great journey. I was especially lucky with this mural as I was assisted by the school’s Indigenous Student Council to design and apply the indigenous content of the artwork. I had a great time and I can’t wait to work with the school again.

 

 

Arts Fest Week

I had a fantastic time in the role of Artist in Residence at Calvary Christian College. Arts students participated in one or more of seven workshops creating individual and group works on canvas for the schools Arts Fest Exhibition. Aerograffix showcased aerosol art and stencil techniques during three demonstrations and completed a music block mural to ensure Arts Fest was a very productive week. 

 

 

Anglicare Emerald

Fresh from another project in Emerald I have again had a very productive and enjoyable time. This most recent project spread Aerograffix with a number of agencies completing murals and workshops at the skatepark, PCYC, Community Solutions, Anglicare Office and banners to celebrate Disability Action Week. It was great to work with some very talented young artists and continue to strenghten partnerships within the community. The number of canvasses and murals produced over the eleven day project was incredible showing demand for the school holiday arts workshops was strong. A big thanks to Anglicare for the opportunity to return to Emerald, also Central Highlands Regional Council and PCYC for supporting the project.

 

Off The Wall @ Burpengary

Burpengary Baptist Church has initiated “Off The Wall” providing the opportunity for young artists to learn skills and pursue legal arts activities. Supported by Moreton Bay Regional Council this project aims to engage young people in community murals and creative career pathways. keep your eyes peeled for an upcoming exhibition of participants artworks and more workshops soon to be announced. Read more

Withcott and Murphy's Creek

Murals at Withcott and Murphy’s Creek have completed the Urban Art Project over the weekend. Eight skateparks across the Lockyer Valley have been brightened up with artworks designed and painted by local young people and Aerograffix. Many positive outcomes have been achieved including a young person who initiated the project receiving a Young Citizens Cultural Award. Community feedback has been great and I commend Lockyer Valley Regional Council for supporting youth arts in the face of adversity with disaster relief and recovery still continuing in the region. The RADF funded Urban Art Project has created ownership and provided culturally relevant arts activities for young people. I look forward to contributing to future initiatives now the seed has been sown. Read more: