Open-air art brings colour and culture amid COVID-19

Open-air art brings colour and culture amid COVID-19

Art galleries may be temporarily closed due to COVID-19 but in Kingston new outdoor artworks have created something of an open-air gallery across the city bringing art to the people.

Kingston Mayor Georgina Oxley said with a new large-scale mural in Chelsea and a vibrant artwork in Parkdale there are many ways for the community to enjoy the work of local artists despite the lockdown.

“Now restrictions have been lifted a little and we can get out and about a bit more, I really encourage people to visit the Chelsea Sportswomen’s Centre to check out the amazing mural painted by Geoffrey Carran,” said Cr Oxley. “The mural pays homage to the Sharp-Tailed Sandpiper, which annually migrate from Siberia to our very own Edithvale Wetlands. It looks truly spectacular at sunset.”

For families, a trip to Parkdale’s Shirley Burke Theatre is a must. Although the building is closed to the public right now, local artist, Deb McNaughton has painted a bright mural on the façade.

“The joyful artwork pays homage to the Rainbow Trail movement which has inspired families to draw rainbows on their footpaths and driveways, as a sign of unity,” said Cr Oxley. “There’s already been an outpouring of love for the mural from the local residents walking and riding by. Make sure you bring the family and get down to Parkdale for a look.”

“Or why not take a stroll along one of the City of Kingston’s Historical Walking Trails and discover the rich history of Mentone and Mordialloc,” Cr Oxley said.

Pocket guides are available to download from the Kingston library website to accompany you on the walking trails. Each guide includes a trail map, so you don’t get lost, and a brief piece of history for each stop.

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