Beaumont Street in Hamilton is set for a fresh splash of colour this month, thanks to half-a-dozen Hunter-based female artists.
The sextet will be installing mural artworks on the external business doorways as part of a City of Newcastle (CN) initiative designed to deter vandals from defacing the popular shopping and eating strip.
Featured artists will include Clare Whelk, Bridie Watt, Squidless Studios, Kate Teal-Spicer, Melody Suranyi and Clare O’Hara.
Their work will continue throughout the day from 10am to 4pm on Saturday 20 May.
Murals will be installed on external doorways and gates at Retro Wardrobe, Lords Coffee & Associates, Gallery X Barbershop, The Neighbourhood Barber & Salon, Lollypop Kids and Coal Espresso Bar along Beaumont Street.
The creations are funded by council’s Special Business Rate program and with support from the Hamilton Business Improvement Association.
The project is the brainchild of public art agency The Wall Station and aims to promote urban beautification and reduce vandalism to business properties.
“The mural artworks will be a real contribution to the ongoing beautification of Beaumont Street” says Reece Hignall, chair of the Hamilton Business Improvement Association.
“Public art is a proven way to help deter tagging and graffiti in the local area.”
CN’s annual SBR program offers financial support to creative projects designed to increase visitation and boost economic activity.
Hamilton, New Lambton and Wallsend business precincts will share in the latest round of offerings totalling $150,000.
Past initiatives have included the Newcastle Fringe Festival and the installation of shopfront “smart” gardens and sky-high murals.
Local businesses and visitors alike are expected to directly benefit from SBR funded projects which enhance the appeal of each suburban business precinct.
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