ARTY PARTY!

Hamilton celebrates local artist collaboration with a community party.

Story written by Annabelle Cameron, photographs taken by Emma Gillespie

The dynamic country town of Hamilton, in South West Victoria, was a hive of activity during March when artists and local children transformed the McGuigan Lane precinct into a public art exhibition for all to enjoy. The outdoor artistic display includes paintings from different artists and contributors, overseen by local artist Jasmine Mansbridge, assisted by Alyshia Bensch.  

Southern Grampians Shire Council teamed up with Jasmine and Alyshia to bring the interactive artist workshop to life through The Hamilton CBD Laneway Revitalisation Project. The event also involved students from Southern Grampians Adult Education and Baimbridge College. Many artists descended on the town to contribute their creative flair, including Jimmi Buscombe, Jesse Shannahan, Kristie Stockton, Madi Whyte and Casey Manson aka ‘Grotti Lotti’. Locals were encouraged to participate and many children enjoyed adding to the eye-catching feature which has injected creativity into the town centre. The artist workshop involved painting colourful murals on the laneway pavement, it brought people together and gave everyone an opportunity to tap into their artistic selves.   

Jasmine said the project had successfully enabled regional artists to unite and showcase their talents. She says, “The laneway project has served to strengthen relationships between council and the community and added to the dialogue around arts and the CBD. Ideally these kinds of projects can add another layer to the cultural richness that already exists in Hamilton, and hopefully we can continue to make Hamilton an even more positive and healthy place to live.”

Local community group, South West Hive, decided to extend on the success of the project by planning a party to celebrate the laneway revitalisation and the regional creatives within greater Hamilton. The party is a collaborative venture bringing local artists, community groups and businesses together to create a memorable community experience.

The Laneway Party will be held in McGuigan Lane in Hamilton at six pm this Friday, April 26. It’s a free family-friendly event including live music from local musician Nick Palmer, face painting and entertainment. Hot food and drinks are also available to be purchased on the night.

Further details maybe found on the South West Hive Facebook page.