After a busy couple of weeks in Longreach and Winton the good times continued in Barcy. I completed commissions at the Barcaldine Library and Shakesphere Hotel (known as “The Shakey”) Once again I made new friends and caught up with old ones. Thanks to Barcaldine Regional Council for the opportunity to paint the bricks that were handcrafted in a garage across the street in 1966 by Garden City enterprises.
It was great to be a part of Shockwave 2018 with workshops in Winton and Blackall.
Once again I was excited to head towards Central Queensland. Commencing with week at Longreach State High School four new murals were created with the assistance of a student who completed his work experience under my guidance. The new works build on the success of the first project this year, transforming spaces around the school and passing on some skills and knowledge to the next generation of mural artist. I also took on a couple of commissions whilst in the area ensuring this CQ trip was going to be super productive. The project was supported by Longreach SHS, Longreach Regional Council, FRRR & RADF.
I had only just returned back to my studio after 4 weeks travelling Central Queensland to receive a call about my next project. A quick restock of materials and I headed west again, soon to be back in Blackall. The town is gearing up for its 150 year celebrations and after spending a week painting at the school last trip, this time my services were required around the CBD. I tackled a number of public artworks and sign painting commissions coinciding with many other street beautification projects happening for the B150 Celebrations. Thanks to Red Ridge for driving the project along with support from Blackall-Tambo Regional Council business owners and community members.
A quick stop to visit friends, quote on future projects and a fresh coat at the BMX club wall.
I had a blast creating new works in Aramac on my CQ Tour, winter 2018. A week was way too short so I consider this to be continued soon.
I had the pleasure of returning to Longreach during my Winter 2018 tour of Central Queensland. This time around I was able to provide a placement for a student to complete their work experience at Longreach State High School . I will always remember my year 10 work experience in 1994 when I worked with a local commercial artist who left me inspired to follow a career in the creative industries. With roles now reversed it felt great to pass on my experience, skills and knowledge to the next generation of artist. With the support of Longreach Regional Council we continued splashing some paint around at the local skatepark to provide an activity to engage young people during the school holidays. The community support for these types of projects was great and I look forward to returning soon to continue the great work.
It was great to return to Blackall State School to work with senior art students recently. We tackled a number of large murals and braved freezing cold mid winter mornings. Students and staff were so keen to participate I missed most of my lunch breaks but it was very much worthwhile as the new art evokes thought, reinforces school values and celebrates Blackall's unique identity.
It's been a while between blog posts and unfortunately our internet issues remain...How's your NBN? I responded to my telecommunications experiences with a solo exhibition The Dark Ages and am hoping to launch a new venture in carrier pigeons in the near future.
I've been busy in my studio and have completed a few mural commissions recently. The great team at Greenhills Lodge in Murwillumbah put my skills to good use with two murals for the residents.
I had a great time at FSG's event Justice in the Park on Saturday. I took in the festival atmosphere and created something inspired by the energy on the day.
