Latrobe City Council and the Latrobe Health Assembly have partnered to create public art in Latrobe City that promotes community safety and connection. Exciting and bold art will be activated and installed across the region in Traralgon, Morwell, Moe and Churchill. Boolarra has also been selected as the hub for a small-town activation. These artworks will offer welcoming and dynamic spaces for people to spend time, creating a sense of community pride.
The desired public art types and locations have been selected based on feedback from community consultations in 2023. This important feedback will continue to guide the project and further community consultation will occur.
The first activation is being held in Boolarra at Centenary Park, as part of the Conference of the Birds on Saturday 25 May from 5.30pm to 7.30pm. The event includes a ceremonial welcome and procession led by Gunaikurnai Elders, music and dance performances, storytelling, animal lanterns, shadow puppets, illuminated installations and local artworks. In support of this vibrant, local event, Creative Latrobe has commissioned five temporary artworks to be displayed. These activations are an important contribution to Creative Latrobe’s aim to support improved wellbeing, local pride and opportunities to engage diverse communities.
Mayor of Latrobe City, Councillor Darren Howe expressed that Creative Latrobe provides a valuable opportunity to bring communities together, especially in Latrobe City’s smaller towns.
“Creative Latrobe will contribute to fostering community connections and creativity by providing a public space for people to connect with each other and with art.”
“Supporting talented local artists to showcase their incredible work, like at Conference of the Birds, is an opportunity for us all to take pride in Latrobe City’s creative culture,” said the Mayor.
Latrobe Health Assembly Chair, Tanya Rong is proud to be part of this rewarding partnership as it fosters a creative environment that will lead to long-term benefits for the community.
“Creative Latrobe allows the community to not only have a say in what art installations are implemented in Latrobe City, but also allows them to be a part of creating it too. Tapping into our local creative community and making these connections goes a long way towards building positive health and wellbeing.”
Latrobe City Council and the Latrobe Health Assembly extend their gratitude to all those who have contributed to Creative Latrobe.
To learn more about Creative Latrobe, register for future events and get involved, visit the website www.latrobecity.com.au/live/creative-latrobe or join the Creative Latrobe Artist’ Facebook group.