BASS Coast is home to the arts, with many talented artists and the Bass Coast Shire Council is asking the community to help shape what public art looks like over the next decade.
Bass Coast has a deep connection to the arts in public venues. Many may have encountered Collide by James Voller in Kernot Reserve, inspired by the area’s heritage architecture, Excuse Me Mr Seagull by Paul Jesse, a nod to San Remo’s fishing history, or the rib-like steel forms of Love and Precious Things by Joe Donahue in Cape Paterson.
Looking to the future, the shire needs your input into their new Public Art Strategy to help guide public artworks that could take many forms, from sculpture and murals to immersive installations over the next 10 years.
Public art is proven to enhance the aesthetic appeal of public space, it provides a gathering point for communities and offers sustained employment and professional growth for artists.
Bass Coast Mayor Cr Rochelle Halstead encourages the community to have their say.
“We have some really beautiful artworks around Bass Coast and I’m excited to see what the future brings for public art in the area,” Cr Halstead said.
“We recently had community workshops to participate in the newest piece of public art for Cowes and these were a great opportunity to get everyone involved in art.”
“If you have ideas about what public artworks should look like in the future or where they could go then this is your chance to have your say!” Cr Halstead said.
“Bass Coast is home to a thriving arts community, but we don’t just want to hear from the arts community, public art is for everyone so we must hear from a diverse range of people.”
A survey is currently open where you can provide your thoughts at engage.basscoast.vic.gov.au/arts-bass-coast.
You can also have your say in person at:
• Corinella – Saturday, March 8, 8:00 am – 1:00 pm, Corinella Market, Harold Hughes Reserve.
• Cowes – Tuesday, March 11, 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm, Berninneit, 91-97 Thompson Avenue.
• Wonthaggi – Sunday, March 16, 2:30 pm – 6:00 pm, Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre, 96 Graham Street.
