Art in Public Places – Hobsons Bay’s unique art program that partners local businesses with artists – is back bigger and better in 2012 with more than 50 artists displaying their work in over 40 businesses and unexpected places.
Mayor of Hobsons Bay Councillor Tony Briffa said the program will also feature 20 events when it runs from 31st March to 29th April.
“Hobsons Bay City Council is proud to once again present Art in Public Places, a wonderful program that supports, encourages and creates partnerships between local artists, cultural groups and businesses,” said Cr Briffa.
“It’s a perfect time to get out and about and explore our city, treating it as one big gallery! We hope you’ll enjoy finding great new cafes, shops and other places or that as you go about your regular business, you can be exposed to and hopefully impressed by artists and the works you’ll find.
“It’s also a reminder of the importance of creativity in our lives, and we hope people will take the time to stop, talk and enjoy. There will also be several interesting events throughout the program that everyone can be involved in.
“I’m really pleased to see the commitment of the artists and our local business operators including trader associations to Art in Public Places. Altona, Newport, Spotswood, South Kingsville and Williamstown are all really well represented, and the events take place across the city, with workshops and celebrations from Brooklyn to Laverton.”
Highlight events include a weaving session with Aunty Vic Morphy, Slam Noir, the Paint the Gardens competition, Altona City Skyline, the Blackboard Project in Newport, the community celebration to mark the opening of Wood Street Arts Space featuring Bombay Royale and a new series of artworks in Airtime.
Art in Public Places won the Australian Business Arts Foundation (AbaF) Toyota Community Award in Victoria for three years between 2007 and 2009. It has enabled more than 500 artists to exhibit in venues in Hobsons Bay.
“On behalf of the Council and the exhibiting artists, I say thank you. Please support the businesses that support Art in Public Places, without them this program would not be possible,” said Cr Briffa.
For more information, call the Arts, Events and Tourism department on 9932 1000 or visit www.artinpublicplaces.com.au
