Gatherings

Artist: Tom Civil
Theme: Gatherings
Year: 2020
Location: Rear facade of Xplosions Bar & Bowl, 42 McKenzie Street, Melton

Artwork Statement:

For this project, 'Gatherings' the artist was commissioned to create a mural to celebrate young people in our City.  Responding to information from consultation with over 70 young people from our diverse and multicultural community this artwork acknowledges aspects of life that were important to young residents, including family connection, friendship, access to recreation, arts and culture, sports, freedom and opportunities for fun.  The rolling panorama of figures interacting with each other in this artwork is a reminder of our inter-connected humanity and the importance of community.  The cartoon-like stick figures gather in groups or sit alone, or they run, walk, skate or cycle with each other.  Each scenario encourages viewers to form their own connections and stories about this boldly graphic and highly effective artwork.

Artist Biography:

Melbourne artist Tom Civil, a self-taught and studio trained print maker, muralist and community arts facilitator has been creating in Melbourne for over 17 years.  Known for his bold, colourful and joyful large scale works, Civil has completed over 30 murals across Melbourne over the past ten years.  In 2012, he was the recipient of the APW Dowd Foundation Scholarship at the Australian Print Workshop.  Civil currently works out of Everfresh Studio in Collingwood.