Mutch Park Skatepark received an innovative makeover thanks to four artists working with local young people to turn the concrete skate ramps onto a colourful canvas reflecting skateboarding culture and the Bayside area.
Bayside Council’s inventive program to deter graffiti vandalism at Mutch Park Skatepark was funded by a Graffiti Management Grant from the NSW Department of Communities and Justice.
The project saw Council engage four artists to create large colourful murals around the skatepark.
The artists Lotte Alexis Smith, David Cragg, Bill Stroulios and Sam Absurd also mentored local youth who helped complete the murals on the concrete ramps of the skatepark.
The young people working with the artists to create the murals were blown away by the experience of creating large murals and the creative process involved in producing the finished murals. Some of their comments included:
- “It was fun and amazing to work with the artists. I learnt a lot about cut and spray art.”
- “It was very enjoyable learning how to use colours and paint. I would definitely do it again if there was an opportunity.”
The skatepark reopened on Friday 19 January with free skate workshops and demos by some of Sydney’s most exciting professional skateboarders.
Mayor Saravinovski said:
“This skatepark, which first opened in October 2019, is a popular hub where young people socialise while actively participating in a healthy physical activity,” Mayor Bill Saravinovski said.
“I was pleased to see young people getting involved in the revitalisation of this space and I hope we continue to see more young people collaborating in Council’s initiatives.”
More information
Information on the Artists
David Cragg
David Cragg is a multidisciplinary artist, originally from Gadigal and Wangal lands (Innerwest Sydney), now working on Dharawal Country (Wollongong), with family ties to Bundjalung and Biripi Nations.
He has exhibited work, painted large scale murals, curated public art installations, performed live art, and delivered art-making workshops and mentorship across Australia.
https://www.instagram.com/davidcragg/?hl=en
Lotte Alexis Smith
Lotte Alexis Smith is local artist who has worked across mural art, illustration, printmaking and runs arts workshops.
Her overall vision in artmaking is to use these skills to make thoughtful art and encourage knowledge exchange through storytelling.
https://www.lottealexissmith.com/
Bill Stroulios
Bill Stroulios is a local Bayside resident and aerosol artist with over 30 years of experience.
Stroulios has painted murals professionally for the past 8 years, producing hundreds of works in both public and private spaces.
https://www.instagram.com/eggzest/
Sam Absurd
Sam, a seasoned aerosol artist hailing from the vibrant western suburbs of Sydney and has spent the last two decades perfecting his craft. Collaborating with local graffiti and street artists, he has cultivated a distinct and original style.
