The three “C’s” of council, creatives and community have thrown their support behind a fledgling initiative to paint over the Riverina’s abandoned grain silos.
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What started as an idea inspired by the success of silo art trails in Victoria’s Wimmera-Mallee region and New South Wales’ Weethalle displays quickly gained traction on social media in Wagga with artists and community members eager to emulate the 100ft canvases.
The plan remains in its infancy, however, Wagga residents are already rallying behind the push for public artistry.
In a The Daily Advertiser poll that received more than 160 responses by 6pm on Wednesday, January 10, roughly 69 per cent of residents had voted in favour of painting the silos.
Former Wagga creative Brian Hodge, who currently plies his trade overseas, was one who voted in the affirmative.
He believes the idea could spark a community building project
“It’s not just a painting on a silo - this is a chance for residents and businesses to pitch in and help create something in the area,” he said
“Nothing would make me prouder to see Wagga’s youth and creative talent do something like this.”
Wagga City Council community director Janice Summerhayes also weighed in on the discussion, lending council’s measured support.
In a statement, Ms Summerhayes said council would be willing to provide advice to anyone wishing to commission artwork in the region.
“As endorsed in Council’s Public Art Plan 2017 – 2021 Enliven, Council supports public art commissions that bring life to the city and surrounds, while promoting the city’s vibrancy and character,” she said.
“Grain silos are not the property of Council, however Council would welcome the opportunity to provide public art advice to any organisation or company that wishes to commission a piece of public art on their infrastructure.”