Nine new large-scale murals will mark the return of Big Picture Fest in Newcastle this weekend.
And, local street artist Goya Torres, originally from Mexico, was among the first to unveil her work ahead of the three-day extravaganza.
The talented creative brought to life a wall on Gibson Street with characters carrying spiritual animals on their shoulders.
Meanwhile, the exterior of Hunter Water’s office will be emblazoned with a striking abstract mural by Noosa-based artist Rosie Woods.
City of Newcastle (CN) councillor Carol Duncan admitted the festival was a terrific way to reinvent and refresh quality artworks across the CBD.
“Street art is an important component of Newcastle’s changing landscape, documenting our rich industrial, social and cultural history,” said the chair of the Public Art Reference Group (PARG), who consulted on the artists and murals chosen to enhance Newcastle’s streetscapes.
“It plays a significant role in fostering a dynamic and vibrant creative arts sector.
“CN has also created a two-part podcast on the festival and Newcastle’s street art scene that is well-worth listening to.”
City of Newcastle is supporting Big Picture Fest as part of New Annual with Special Business Rate (SBR) funding to bring local, national and international artists together.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the event enhanced Newcastle’s public art scene and contributed to the vibrancy of the city.
“Newcastle is a major arts and cultural destination that is entering a new phase of maturity and sophistication thanks to ongoing revitalisation right across our city,” she explained.
“Big Picture Fest is a major activation that brings together local, national and international renowned artists.
“The festival celebrates Newcastle’s history and creative culture by showcasing amazing talent through large scale murals in the city for visitors and locals to enjoy.
“It’s a great example of how SBR funding can be used to help beautify and activate our business precincts, which provides a boost to the economy and supports jobs.”
Big Picture Fest director Katerina Skoumbas said excitement was building for the return of the festival in Newcastle.
“It will be a busy weekend for Newcastle, so we encourage people to get out to see the artists in-situ as the art they create injects so much colour and energy into our city,” she added.
Big Picture Fest, on show from now until Sunday 2 October, is free for the community to attend.
For more information and a mural map, visit thebigpicturefest.com/
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