MILLICENT public arts group Imagine Millicent has retained the services of Melbourne-based mural artist Kitt Bennett to create a dynamic image of a squid on the Millicent Skate Park.
Mr Bennett specialises in large installations at ground level and has created a number of murals in Melbourne and regional Victoria.
The large-scale artist will start work on the mural later this month and the project will take around one week to complete.
Local skaters and scooter riders are excited about the project, saying it will make the skate park a standout venue.
“It looks great and it suits here because the coast and sea creatures are part of our environment,” Justin Wright said.
“I really like the how the squid is spitting out ink … it’s cool,” Cooper Pratt said.
A representative group of skaters were consulted on possible design elements and these were relayed back to Kitt.
The connecting theme of wind and water, which will be integral to the Domain Parklands development, was also communicated to the artist.
“We are thrilled with the design and are very excited about this public art piece for our town,” IMAG member Steph Barton said.
After researching various artists and concepts, the group believed Kitt’s work could be a great way to make the skate park a public canvas and add additional value to the recreational space.
Wattle Range Council economic development manager and established photographer Steve Chapple will filme the mural’s development via drone.
The video will be used to promote Millicent, Kitt Bennett, IMAG and council.
“Public art has the potential to enhance community engagement,” Wattle Range Mayor Des Noll said.
“This skate park mural will be a powerful and imaginative component of the overall development of the Domain Parklands for locals and visitors to our town.”
The group said public reaction to the design has been positive, with the bold colours of the squid and references to the coast seen as an asset.
A coloured sketch of the design will be on display in the Millicent Library for the next nine days and those interested are invited to come and leave their comments.
The design will be a highlight when the Millicent Skate Park competition occurs in October, as well as the 5000 bicycle riders spending a night in Millicent in November.
IMAG said businesses have been generously supportive of this project through providing meals for the artist.
For further information, please contact Moira Neagle on 0439880294 or moira.neagle@bigpond.com
