A MILLION WAYS TO SAY NO TO VIOLENCE
AN unusual care package has made its way from the Gold Coast to Brisbane as a part of the Million Stars to End Violence project for next year’s Commonwealth Games.
The city yesterday sent about 80,000 colourful, woven stars to artist and weaver Maryann Talia Pau to put together for a public art exhibition at City Hall in Brisbane during the Games.
The project will also raise awareness of domestic and family violence.
“Everybody in our community whether you are a woman, child or man, should be safe,” Ms Talia Pau said.
“Everyone who weaves a star is making a statement that they believe in working together to end violence.”
The artist was inspired to create the million stars project after reading a quote from Martin Luther King at a vigil for a woman who had been raped and murdered.
“‘Returning hate for hate only multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars’ – that meant everything to me,” she said.
The art installation will include stars from people around the world.
So far about 750,000 stars have been received with the closing date for submissions in just two weeks.
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said it was inspiring to see the city united to end violence.
“I can’t wait to see the display at Games time,” he said.
For more information on how to contribute a star visit www.onemillionstars.net.