Wellard community artworks unveiled

The Wellard Community Art Project – which produced a series of unique artworks, created by members of the local community, students from the Peter Carnley Anglican Community School and a team of youth participating in a local Green Corps project – was unveiled at a special celebration on Saturday (1 November).

More than 30 members of the local community joined project partners, Peet Limited the Department of Housing and Works, Town of Kwinana and Peter Carnley Anglican Community School to celebrate the culmination of this exciting project.

The project was also supported by Challenger TAFE and received funding support from the Community Arts Network WA.

Guests soaked up the sunshine, took time to stroll through Linear Park and view the new artworks and enjoyed the antics of a roving circus performer.

Launching the art project Town of Kwinana Mayor Carol Adams said that community art is something that Council feels is very important.

“Art gives people a way of expressing their creativity,” she said. “And it allows them to reflect on what living in Kwinana means to them.”

The artworks, which now contribute to the creation of dynamic, interactive areas of public open space within The Village at Wellard, were completed at a series of community and student workshops guided by professional community artist Christine Martin-Hegarty and assistant artist, Elena Lane.

A group of interested local residents, who took part in the community workshops, designed and decorated seating made from timber salvaged from The Village at Wellard estate with clay, painting and carving techniques.

The students, from Peter Carnley Anglican Community School, produced four large mosaic artworks with kindergarten students contributing their footprints to a clay border around the mosaic work.

Peet Limited Managing Director Brendan Gore said the project had provided the opportunity to establish further links with local community groups and residents, enhancing the strong sense of community spirit which is already developing at The Village at Wellard.

“The level of support and commitment from the community has been fantastic,” said Mr Gore. “And the result is a great series of artworks which will provide a lasting legacy for community to enjoy.”

For more information about The Village at Wellard visit www.thevillageatwellard.com.au.