Mural highlights need to defend natural habitats

A BELLARINE-based artist has joined the world-wide chorus to defend natural habitats against the palm oil industry and the subsequent devastation of rainforests, with what he does best – creating art.

Scottie Neoh (aka Bonsai) has painted a mural on a building wall located at 2 Wright Place (facing onto the Lt Ryrie Street carpark) in Geelong. The project was supported by the City of Greater Geelong and the owner, and tenants, of the building.

Responding to the Greenpeace #WingsOfParadise campaign, the mural depicts the Ribbon Tailed Astrapia, native to Central Papua New Guinea.

Neoh said his painting was completed over four days with great support from Geelong City Council, the building owner and tenants.

“So many people approached me during the installation of the piece and were intrigued as to why I was painting a bird of paradise, which led to a conversation about palm oil and deforestation,” he said.

“A conversation that I hope will continue.”

Both the birds and their native habitat are in danger of being lost forever if the palm oil industry continues with deforestation of indigenous areas.

Street artists and volunteers from Geelong to Taipei, to Paris, Vienna and LA, have responded to the call to bring to the forefront the potential devastation sustained deforestation will have on the environment.

Mayor Bruce Harwood said the piece was an excellent example of the role public art could play in transforming the city into a vibrant and interesting place.

“This project is an example of how artists can use their creative platform to respond to issues of global significance,” he said.