Portarlington’s work of art

THE City of Greater Geelong’s extensive public art collection has expanded with a new mural in Portarlington.

Drawing inspiration from ‘Wendell’ the weedy sea dragon featured on the Port Phillip Ferry service, local artist Sai Neoh will bring the character to life in honour of the coastal towns’ ties to the environment.

Known for his graphic and colourful aerosol work, Mr Neoh will capture the detailed and colourful patterns of the creatures as they appear to be heading home towards Port Phillip Bay where the symbolic animal can commonly be found.

The news was announced by the Portarlington Community Association (PCA) which revealed the artistic feature will be found in the laneway between the Hive building and Bendigo Bank on Newcombe Street.

Preparation work has taken place earlier this month with the colourful creation now underway.

News of the project follows the response to a survey conducted by the community group last year where murals were identified as an art form to “smarten up the town” while representing the local environment, history and industry.

“They add colour to building walls and areas that would otherwise go unnoticed, attracting locals and tourists, creating conversation and enhancing opportunities for local businesses,” PCA vice president Diane Kolomeitz said.

Funded by the city, the project is an important cultural addition to the Portarlington shopping precinct and the region’s public art collection.

Deputy mayor and chair of the creative communities and culture portfolio, Trent Sullivan, said the laneway mural will add colour and vibrancy to the popular tourism town.

“The laneway is situated near the top of the main road heading down to the pier and the swimming beach, so it will act as an entry feature to the main retail space,” he said.

“It’s hoped that this mural will foster meaningful connections and pride of place within the Portarlington community by celebrating the marine life unique to the area.”

The mural has been designed in collaboration with the city’s environment team, the PCA and relevant building owners.

The public art commission will be the first laneway mural in Portarlington, with PCA president Geoff Fary preparing to fundraise for more public art opportunities across the township over the coming years.

“I hope Sai’s work will be one of a number that will become icons of our community and a drawcard for visitors,” he said.