New Union Street mural examines identity and family

A NEW street art installation in central Geelong is inviting the community to reflect on themes of home, identity and migration.

The mural, titled Migrant, Mother, Sister, was created by local artist Jasmine Miu, who works under the name Jaz Mishap, as the first artist selected to take part in the City of Greater Geelong’s new Women in Street Art (WiSA) program.

The biennial program was established to address the underrepresentation of women in street and public art, and to provide opportunities for female artists to deliver new works within central Geelong.

Located at the rear of the Regent Theatre in Union Street, the artwork occupies a previously underutilised brick wall and combines painted elements with custom neon and LED lighting.

The piece includes text in both English and stylised Chinese characters, referencing Ms Miu’s heritage and her personal experience as the daughter of a migrant from Hong Kong to Australia. It also acknowledges the often-unseen labour and care of women.

The lighting elements serve a dual purpose, contributing to visibility and safety along a key night-time pedestrian route.

Ms Miu said the work was shaped by her recent experience of motherhood and her family’s migration history.

“This work is born from my new journey of motherhood with my daughter, and from the generational care and memories carried by the women in my family,” she said.

“Its layers honour the labour of mothers, migrants and diverse women. The neon statements ‘Thank you’ and ‘You are seen’ echo the glow of Hong Kong cityscapes as a homage to my heritage. The image of a mother carrying her child over water is a symbol of the quiet strength, responsibility and continuity held by women across generations and place.

“I hope viewers see a piece of their own family stories reflected in it, and that it brings a sense of joy.”

The $30,000 installation was funded by the City.

Cr Elise Wilkinson said the WiSA program would help broaden the visibility of women artists across the city.

“Over the years, we’ve seen murals by women artists appear across central Geelong,” she said.

“The WiSA program goes further and will continue to build, while showcasing the work of local women artists.

“This latest installation sets a very high standard, with a piece that is unlike anything I’ve seen in public street art before, while also sending a powerful message about the role of women in shaping Greater Geelong.”