Last year, after extensive community and stakeholder consultation, Council adopted the Public Art Policy. The Policy has introduced a clear and transparent framework for commissioning public art.
This Policy is all about creating opportunities for artists and enhancing our shared spaces. It reflects our commitment to making public areas vibrant, inspiring, and meaningful, while also carefully managing resources.
Here's how it's already making a difference:
- Transparent selection process: Artists and the community can trust a fair and open approach to choosing public art projects.
- Creative initiatives: A balanced focus on supporting talented local artists while also welcoming big-name national talent.
- Community spirit: Art that celebrates our region's unique character, instilling pride in the people who live here.
The Policy is already being implemented, with a recent mural in Rosebud a glowing example of how the new process can enhance our public spaces and streetscapes.
The mural, created by internationally renowned artist Adnate, depicts a beautiful banksia flower. The Coastal Banksia, native to the Mornington Peninsula, symbolises resilience and the beauty of nature.
This project came to life through collaboration between the Shire (Placemaking Grant), social enterprise Bayview Care, and the artist. Following the principles of the Public Art Policy, the process involved a dedicated public art assessment working group, which included the Reconciliation Officer and Inclusion Team to ensure the mural was culturally appropriate and meaningful to the local community.
Read the Public Art Policy, including the new framework, processes and procedures on our website: mornpen.vic.gov.au/PAframework
Quotes attributable to Mayor Councillor Anthony Marsh:
"Public art brings our communal spaces to life, instils community pride, creativity, and connection while supporting local and national artists.
"The Policy was shaped by feedback from our artists community. Their input directly informed our new processes and guidelines."
Image caption: Rosebud's latest mural by Adnate shines bright at Bayview Care shopfront, 1095 Point Nepean Road.
