The creativity, vitality and energy that exists amongst the City of Maribyrnong’s young people across all aspects of city life is noticeable – and commendable. The arts is certainly one area where young people excel and respond enthusiastically to opportunities to build their skills.
Creative Pathways is an innovative arts project targeted at young people run by Council for the second consecutive year. The program engages young people to build their skill in street art production by taking part in a series of workshops facilitated by professional street artists. Armed with their newly acquired expertise from the workshops, young people create unique and collaborative street art on Council-chosen sites in Footscray.
The outcome: Engaged, active and skilled young people; more robust artists’ portfolios; and eye-catching bursts of colourful street art gracing the streets of the City of Maribyrnong.
Georgia Wardell is one of the local young people who embraced the opportunity to grow her skills, while taking part in something meaningful for her community. She completed the workshops for the 2015 Creative Pathways program through November and December and was at the forefront on the Paint Day in January when young people created their street art installation.
Georgia developed an interest in graffiti and street art from a young age by catching public transport around the west and seeing colourful lettering and characters. It was so intriguing and she wanted to learn more about the culture.
She has been using aerosol for the last two–three years and thanks to the Maribyrnong Youth Services staff at the Phoenix Youth Centre, has been able to meet some great artists who have supported and encouraged her.
“What I love about street art, is the anonymity, reinforced by the lack of expectation to be a certain type of person – anyone can pick up a spray can.
“I also admire its overall effectiveness in conveying messages to make people think and develop opinions.
“Artists and writers like Cherrie Buttons, Georgia Hill, Harley Jones, Poise, Sear, Dvate, Sofles, and Felipe Pantone are all incredibly talented, and who I look up to.”
Georgia said that Creative Pathways had given her a much clearer understanding of an industry she hoped to be involved in. It had allowed her to improve her skills, as well as providing extra opportunities and work to add to her folio.
