Artists asked to liven up alley

WOULD you like to make your mark on a prominent piece of brick architecture?

The City of Ballarat is calling for expressions of interests to commission a local artist in creating a temporary piece across the annex wall of Alfred Deakin Place.

The display will remain for one year, and Cr Amy Johnson said it’s a great opportunity for artists of any level.

“The artwork will be featured in a prominent public space that will be seen by thousands of people,” she said.

“It’s an incredible opportunity for artists in the city, we’ve had some very contemporary pieces but we’re open to any submissions.”

The successful candidate will be given a $9000 budget, with the work to be installed from Tuesday, 1 November.

Since 2019, the 10-metre-long and 2.8-metre-high canvas has seen a rotating roster of annual artists, beginning with Josh Muir’s Roots through to Mirrormaze by George Goodnow.

Shortlisted candidates will receive $500, and Cr Johnson said the piece will benefit more than just the artists.

“That space is used for a lot of events, and we know that having public works on display provides an opportunity for the community to engage with art,” she said.

“There’s lots of evidence that suggests cities that have a large collection of displayed art have increased overall health and wellbeing outcomes.

“And we usually get quite a few submissions for this site so that tells us it’s a very popular place.”