Great things happen at North. It was fantastic to return to Emerald North State School after completing the tuck shop project last year. This time my skills were put to use on a large welcoming mural and teaching block 4 also received some attention with an illusion mural with cartoon elements. It was a pleasure to return and see familiar faces amongst the school community.
I was recently contacted by the principal at Ipswich West State School a primary school west of Brisbane, to create artwork for the tuck shop. Built in 1861, the school has plenty of architectural character and is heritage listed however the addition of the new box style tuck shop looked out of place amongst the red brick, corrugated iron and wood features of the adjacent buildings. The tuck shop had been referred to as "The Toilet Block" by some stakeholders as its aesthetics were less than inspiring.
The brief was to make the tuck shop blend in with the surroundings and bring continuity by creating an illusion mural. I came across many challenges during designing and applying the mural however the transformation has impressed and engaged staff and students alike. It has been a joy to work amongst a professional and friendly school community.
