The making of a community mural (Story Book) - North Yarra ...

Vera Boston
Why does a Community Health Centre get involved with arts projects? What does that have to do
with health? We at North Yarra Community Health think that it has a lot to do with keeping people
healthy, forming new bonds and strengthening existing relationships, linking people together, giving
them a sense of their community and showcasing the artistic skills of the community.
Whether it’s the murals of 1993, the Generation Exchange theatre productions of 1999 and 2000,
the Afghani/ Iranian Women’s Mural or the Inside Out - Outside In musical extravaganza of 2004,
the Colours of Fitzroy mural by the BEEM Artists of 2006, or this latest creation, each of these activities
has strengthened community life and given participants a greatly improved sense of well being by
creating a space where people’s creativity can be expressed.
In essence it’s about a healthy community, not just healthy individuals, and arts projects such as these
nurture the community and build its resilience.
The demise of the old murals has been keenly felt – however, the materials had aged, the community
around us has changed and we needed a new landmark.
I am delighted with the work which has been done – the artists have captured all the contributions
made by the community and skilfully woven them into a beautiful whole. The river is particularly
meaningful, representing both the Yarra, which is part of our name and of the municipality, and all
the rivers of the world which link communities together, bring new ideas and are a source of beauty
and richness.
One of the highlights of this project has been the partnership with Collingwood College, and
their Year 9 students have added a new perspective to the project. I am also aware that the
Neighbourhood Justice Centre has partnered us in this work, and a number of the design workshops
have been held there. The Collingwood Neighbourhood House and CHEAC, the Collingwood
Housing Estate Art Committee, both played a major support role for the project and provided space
for workshops.
NYCH is extremely grateful to the people and organisations and businesses who contributed financially
to the project, including a substantial anonymous donation – to all of them – Thank you very much.
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IN THE FLOW - the making of a community mural