It was great to return to Gayndah State School and apply new work. I wish to thank the staff and students who made me feel welcome and asked a record breaking number of questions! I enjoyed revisiting the oldest school in Queensland and left inspired by some of the hand painted signage from decades past.
I had a quick visit to complete a small section of a group mural and deliver a painting for Mundubbera Regional Art Galleries 10 year celebrations. Since having an exhibition The Dark Ages last year I am excited to be a part of the group exhibition opening on January 26th.
I had a very productive and enjoyable time in Miriam Vale despite the inclement weather. Cosmic the magpie and the Super Kids featured in a number of murals reinforcing the school values. A big thanks to the staff and students at Miriam Vale State School who’s enthusiasm kept me going in wet and windy conditions.
No trip in Central Queensland is complete without a visit to Aramac. Known as “The Centre of the Universe” by some community members, I have had the idea for some time of creating this image, particularly since my first mural in Aramac was a galaxy inspired piece. I gave the town map a non-linear interpretation including items and attractions from surrounding areas arranged in the directions as you would see them standing directly in front of the wall. The other side was painted to serve as a backdrop for camp oven cooking which takes place regularly.
I also took on a couple of other commissions including a bedroom mural, a private bar area and a shipping container for Aramac Bowls Club.
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.
