In an effort to enliven public spaces and foster creativity, a series of colourful new street murals has been unveiled in downtown Footscray.
A group of forty people were led on a brief tour of some of the new StreetWORKS murals after they were unveiled to the public, adding ten fresh images to the existing sixteen in the area.
The Maribyrnong Council received State Government support in 2023 to expand the program which also aims to deter vandalism. A number of the artists accompanied the tour; Daniel van de Wiel, Tom Civil and Justine McAllister explained the stories behind their work and the challenges of working on scissor lifts. Each work has been covered with anti-graffiti coatings.
The works have achieved their aim of enlivening public spaces and covering some very underwhelming blank walls too. Property owners and businesses have been very supportive of the program.
One of the larger pieces is the illuminated ‘Welcome to Footscray’ on the façade of 88 Hopkins Street by the acclaimed Wiradjuri and Ngunnawal artist, Brook Andrew, a long time resident of Footscray. This piece is designed to be a ‘playful’ and dynamic gateway to Footscray.
All in all the new additions to the StreetWORKS program are very welcome enhancements to the neighbourhood and the program comes with a walking map, featuring 26 works by various artists.
Download the walking map from
maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/News/Illuminate-Footscray-Striking-artwork-debuts-on-Hopkins-Street
