Kingston Neighbourhood House has teamed up with local artist Emma‑Lee Bradbury and Kingborough Council to deliver an art and nature project that will see two wall murals designed and painted at the Neighbourhood House.
Mayor Paula Wriedt said the exciting art project is inspired by the flora and fauna of Hawthorn Drive Reserve.
“The project kicked off with a guided nature discussion in the reserve with Council staff, where natural materials were collected with families and the artist,” Cr Wriedt said.
“Following the walk, flowers, leaves, gumnuts and seed heads were laid out and used to discuss shapes, colours, wildlife, food sources and habitats found within Hawthorn Drive Reserve.
“The children and their families then developed the foundations concepts for the mural” Cr Wriedt said.
One family shared that they had never visited the reserve before, but now return regularly, using the experience to talk about the plants and wildlife that live there and are unique to the reserve.
The next stage of the co‑design process has invited the wider neighbourhood community to vote on the colours, plants and animals they would like to see featured in the murals.
Council’s Biodiversity Officer, Jill Jones said learning about local plants and wildlife builds up curiosity, understanding and a strong sense of care for our natural places.
“Art can deepen that connection to place, helping both children and adults engage with nature through colour, storytelling and creativity,” said Ms Jones.
Mayor Paula Wriedt said the finished murals will be a wonderful example of using nature as a source of inspiration and learning for children in the community.
“Congratulations to Kingston Neighbourhood House and everyone involved in bringing this meaningful project to life,” Cr Wriedt said.
This project was made possible by the Australian Governments Regional Arts Fund, which supports the arts in regional and remote Australia.
