The power of public art transforms bland storage shed into a street art masterpiece

A nondescript storage shed in Cinders Lane, Armidale has been transformed into a vibrant public art canvas by street artist Charlie Nivison.

Charlie, who hails from Walcha, is a successful street artist who works locally, nationally and overseas. His bright murals help to re-energise urban landscapes and create a sense of pride and community.

Chair of the Arts, Cultural and Heritage Advisory Committee Councillor Margaret O’Connor said murals help bring a sense of community and create a lasting effect.

“Murals are one way of activating our spaces and creating a sense of fun with thought provoking decoration of unused structures that we might otherwise never notice!” said Cr Margaret O’Connor.

“Public art is an important component of urban landscapes around Australia and the world . It's important to ensure our public art enhances community life. Businesses and community groups in Armidale are already expressing themselves in this way, for example the beautiful goldfish on the corner of Jessie and Rusden Street really lights up that corner for everyone.”

Students from Guyra Central School have also been working with Charlie to learn the design elements of street art. The students are creating designs for public art works for the upcoming Guyra main street redevelopment and took this opportunity to learn how to think big.

The street art mural was funded through a successful grant from the Country Art Support Program (CASP) to create a vibrant and creative public art work that reactivates the CBD.

Published on 07 Jun 2018