The streets of Griffith are set to be transformed as the eagerly awaited Her Way 2680 Project announces the commencement of new public murals this April. Partnering with the celebrated Banna Lane Festival, this initiative promises to infuse the city with creativity and community spirit.
The murals were identified by local women and girls as part of Griffith City Council’s Her Way 2680 project. The project is part of Safer Cities: Her Way program, a collaborative partnership between Transport for NSW and Council that aims to help improve perceptions of safety in our cities and towns, particularly for women, girls and gender diverse people.
The murals will be created by local talents and artists from afar, the project will span over five prominent sites across Griffith. In an effort to include and empower young girls and gender diverse people, some artworks are being co-designed by local women and girls through a workshop hosted by Banna Lane festival organiser Carrah Lymer, KPU creative artist Karissa Undy and students at Murrumbidgee High School.
Melina Ragusa, a Careers Advisor at Murrumbidgee High School, commented on the project, stating, “As a local school, we take pride in empowering our students to engage in impactful community projects like this. Our students are thrilled about collaborating with renowned artist and former student, Karissa Undy, and having their artwork showcased. They are eager for their creations to contribute to the safety of everyone along Yambil Street.
A/Executive Director Cities Revitalisation and Place, Transport for NSW Brooke Wharton said “Through the Safer Cities: Her Way program our 10 partner councils have engaged with over 5000 women and girls across the state. We have consistently heard that public art is vital to creating a feeling of safety in public spaces and transport hub precincts. We all have a right to feel safe on our journeys and it’s great to see Griffith continuing the spirit of co-design through to delivery of public art.”
Studies have shown that well-curated murals deter vandalism and illicit activities while fostering a sense of pride and ownership among community members.
The Her Way 2680 Project invites residents and visitors alike to witness the transformation of Griffith’s streetscape, celebrating art, diversity, and unity with a project closure event scheduled for July 2024.
