Vibrant temporary artworks have landed on the footpaths of Baylis Street between Morgan and Forsyth Streets to celebrate Youth Week 2026.
Young people aged 12 to 24 years from across Wagga Wagga took part in creative workshops with local artist and educator Emily Shannon in the lead up to this year's Youth Week celebrations, resulting in fun and colourful designs.
Funded through Wagga Wagga City Council's Public Art Plan 2022-2026, the artwork, collectively titled Stand Strong, consists of decals applied to the pavement on either side of Baylis Street at locations identified by youth.
Council's Cultural Officer Lauren Reynolds said the project was designed to celebrate the strengths of local young people.
"The project is aimed at encouraging the broader community to recognise young people for the positive role they play in shaping a vibrant and connected Wagga Wagga," Lauren said.
"Temporary artworks are a great way to celebrate our community spirit and diversity and this artwork is a fun and creative snapshot of what makes our young people feel strong."
Artist Emily Shannon said "we workshopped the idea of shoes being a symbol of strength, identity, and confidence.
"The young people traced their own footwear and used colour, words, drawings, emojis and shoelace sculptures to express their strongest qualities."
Stand Strong will be exhibited on Baylis Street during the month of April while Youth Week celebrations take place.
"The shoes are scattered along the footpath with space for anyone to stand amongst them and grab some photos," Lauren Reynolds said.
"We encourage everyone to take a moment, find some shoes you like, and stand strong with Wagga Wagga's young people."
As part of Youth Week, Council is delivering a series of events and workshops for young people aged 12 to 24 years, including training sessions, creative workshops, a Minecraft movie night and more.
