A new public artwork by artist Julian Clavijo will be installed at Ruffey Lake Park in January, reflecting on the themes of peace and the experiences of people who have migrated from overseas and now live in Manningham.
This project - titled Journey of Hope - has been informed by community engagement over the past 2 years including interactive workshops with community members.
"Journey of Hope celebrates the shared human pursuit of peace, belonging, and renewal," Julian said.
"It's not just a monument of peace; it is a mirror. It honours the stories that shape Manningham's richly diverse community and is a reminder that in our diversity lies our strength, and that peace, while personal, is always shared with the world around us.
"Thanks to each member of the community who participated and contributed with their insights and stories to bring this project to life," Julian said.
Julian is an award-winning artist based in Melbourne, specialising in mural painting and sculpture. His photorealistic murals blend spray-painting and traditional brush techniques.
He was the principal sculptor for Memoir of a Snail, the 2025 Oscar-nominated film in the Best Animated Feature category and has worked with major organisations globally and won multiple art awards. His work explores the transcendence of humanity, innocence and our intrinsic connection with the environment.
A mural by Julian, Alexandra the Great, can be viewed at Alexandra the Great Café, 27 Anderson Street, Templestowe Village.
Journey of Hope is due to be installed in January 2026. It will be in the northeast section of the park near the corner of Cricklewood Drive and Victoria Street.
Site preparation has been partially completed, with access pathways and seating installed. Additional trees will also be planted as part of the project.
