By Parker McKenzie
Last week, The Star Mail showcased the first in a series of public art pieces installed throughout Ferntree Gully Village.
Located along the wall of Horologist Lane, artists Joanna Mott and John Powell collaborated with local school children to create murals of native animals made from pressings of native plants.
Through the Ferntree Gully Creative Placemaking Plan, Knox City Council will continue to expand and install new public art throughout the area with lightbox galleries, creative play elements and murals to active public spaces.
Knox City Mayor Marcia Timmers-Leitch said the plan is a direct response to feedback from traders and residents “who considered the village to be in a poor state with significant vandalism, graffiti and empty shops.”
“Council has developed a plan in consultation with community members who told us they want to see the return of this once-vibrant, historic township,” she said.
“This plan will help Ferntree Gully Village realise its potential as a tourism destination and gateway to the Dandenong Ranges.”
The $240,000 project has been funded through $130,000 from the council and $110,000 from the Victorian Government’s Living Local fund Suburban Grants.
Mayor Timmers-Leitsh said the council’s plan uses art to “beautify and create interest in the village and improve community safety along key pedestrian walkways with artworks installed within light boxes.”
“We will build on the unique identity of the village with community and public art installations reflecting the community-elected themes of nature and the environment, local history, First Nations and diversity to bring back the unique character of the village,” she said.
“This plan supports the long-term cultural, social and economic wellbeing of Ferntree Gully Village for local residents, traders and visitors, and forms part of Council’s broader work to support suburban renewal and retail activation of key precincts in Knox.”
Ms Mott told the Star Mail on 5 December that local councils are increasingly supporting artists to engage with the community and create public art.
“As an artist, I make my own work but I also feel like it’s valuable to create opportunities for people in the community that might not have access to be invited to contribute,” she said.
“They’ll feel a lot of pride I hope and a greater sense of belonging when they see their artwork out in the world.”
