Over a thousand tiny wooden homes were decorated across the Swan Hill region as part of a community project for Harmony Day.
Volunteers at the Swan Hill Woodworkers Group and Kerang Men’s Shed have crafted 1200 small wooden ‘HOME’ houses using donated timber from Karinie Building Supplies and Dahlsens (Kerang and Swan Hill).
Throughout March community groups, schools and playgroups took part in workshops to paint them.
Harmony Day organiser and Regional Arts Victoria Creative Arts Facilitator Kim Bennett said participants were asked to reflect on the meaning of “home”.
“This project encourages people to think about what home means to them – is it a physical place, an emotion, a sense of belonging?”
“We have seen some beautiful homes created already, with themes of agriculture, animals and plenty with personal items attached.
“We’ve also seen some bright and playful ones made by the story-time kids at the Swan Hill Regional Library.”
The little houses formed an interactive art installation at Harmony Day celebrations on 25 March.
People attending the event had the chance to take a house with them as a memento.
“We’re hoping to create some connections at Harmony Day between those who have painted a HOME and those who attend,” Ms Bennett said.
Harmony Day has become a signature event on Swan Hill’s calendar, attracting thousands of people each year.
In 2017 it was held at Swan Hill’s Riverside Park and included cultural demonstrations, a community kitchen selling food from around the globe, a fashion parade and kids’ activities.
