Brighten up this old town
MP wants murals to mark our history
CORIO MP Richard Marles has called for more public art in the CBD to end the “scourge of large concrete walls starting to diminish our city”.
The federal MP, whose electorate takes in the Geelong CBD, says murals should pay homage to Geleong’s history.
“Unfortunately as a city we have not always valued our heritage, which has seen the loss of many significant buildings,” Mr Marles said. “Just as we have lost architecture, we are now at a point where we are at risk of our changing skyline redefining our city.”
Mr Marles cites the To the Unknown Mariner mural on the side of the former Port Authority building on Brougham St as a model for others around the city.
“This mural pays homage to Geelong’s proud port history and in turn, the striking portrait adds another dimension to Geelong’s skyline and story,” Mr Marles said in a speech to parliament last week.
“At Little Malop St and Dennys Place, a mural of King Billy stands two storeys high in tribute to the well-respected spokesman of the Wadawurrung people.
“Art is embraced by Geelong locals and people who come to visit; because it has not only enhanced the walls of the Geelong CBD, but also adds to the story of Geelong.”
Other artwork dotted around the city that tells of Geelong’s history include the Chrissy Amphlett mural at McLarty Place, and the front of the Geelong Advertiser building on Little Malop St.
A mural charting the rise of Furphy beer has also been painted on the Commun Na Feine Hotel on Bellerine St.
Mr Marles said a concerted effort was needed by planning authorities and developers to stop big buildings being approved with plain concrete walls.
He said the wall of the Geelong Arts Centre redevelopment could be a suitable location for a new mural.
Mr Marles said Geelong council needed to continue embracing public art and put in place a program that established murals on large concrete walls around the CBD.
“The way Geelong looks matters; those responsible for rewriting its skyline need to be invested in making this new story beautiful,” he said.