Three recent additions to Yorke Peninsula’s large-scale art scene have been nominated for the 2023 Australian Street Art Awards.
Projects at water tanks in Minlacowie and Wool Bay, both completed in the first half of last year, are nominated for Best Mega Mural and Best Rural Art respectively.
The site at Wool Bay features the original town port through to modern day, including local flora and fauna as well as the town’s lime kiln, and was completed by Sam Brooks and Harley Hall, with the assistance of Mark Harding, Rachelle Plazeriano and Gary Nowlan.
Minlacowie’s tank was completed in just nine days by Mike Makatron, Conrad Bizjak, Dylan Butler and Narungga artist Harley Hall, and displays the four Narungga totems — the Garrdi (emu), Wawi (female red kangaroo), Widhadha (shark) and Wildu (eagle).
“It is an incredible honour that the murals at Minlacowie and Wool Bay have been named as finalists in the Australian Street Art Awards,” Yorke Peninsula Council mayor Darren Braund said.
“These murals are captivating with vibrant colours and beautiful artwork and, importantly, both include significant acknowledgement of Narungga history and culture.
“This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of not only the artists but also council staff, elected members and the community which came together to make this project a reality.
“The support from the community and the talented artists involved have been the driving forces behind its success.”
Bute’s striking silo art is also in the running, with a nomination in the Best Mega Mural category; the work won gold in the Best Rural Art and silver in the Best Mega Mural categories last year.
Seven years in the making, the Bute artwork was a group effort by the local community, Barunga West Council, and artists Scott Nagy and KrimsOne and the Juddy Roller network.
Mayor Leonie Kerley said the design represents country women and girls, local agriculture, and native plants and birds, while the proud rooster is a nod to Bute sporting clubs.
“It has become a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts, and travellers, especially as it has tapped into a popular national trend of silo art,” she said.
“The artwork provides a good reason for tourists on road trips to divert to Bute and discover a charming little town they might not have otherwise seen.
“The artwork provides another drawcard for people to explore the region and helps to boost the local economy.
“It definitely does help to attract people to take the journey and visit our region and what we have to offer.”
Mrs Kerley said work has begun to improve accessibility through the parking facilities and walking paths at the silos, with plans in place for a viewing platform.
National gold, silver and bronze winners, as well as each state champion, will be announced at a gala dinner celebration as part of the Art of Attraction Tourism Summit on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast on Friday, March 8.
This article appeared in Yorke Peninsula Country Times, 23 January 2024.
