By Ms Dimity Kidston, Acting Head of Creative Arts

In week 8, visual arts students witnessed a remarkable display of creativity and collaboration. The Year 10 students embarked on an ambitious project to transform the shipping container situated outside the visual arts rooms into a colourful mural. The project was a collaboration between the students and renowned muralist, Bjarni Wark, better known as Happy Decay.

Bjarni, known for his dynamic and colourful art style, led the project with a vision that encapsulated more than just aesthetic appeal. The collaboration was not only a learning experience but also a bridge between the theoretical knowledge acquired in classrooms and the practical application in a real-world scenario. Over the span of three days, the blank metal canvas of the shipping container transformed into a kaleidoscope of colours.

The design of the mural was a collective effort, showcasing the interests of the visual arts students. Under the guidance of Bjarni, the students learned the intricacies of creating a large-scale artwork, from concept to the final brush stroke.

The mural has become a focal point in the visual arts area, radiating an upbeat energy that inspires not just the arts students but everyone who passes by.

This project highlights the importance of practical learning experiences outside of the classroom – when art becomes a communal experience, not just a personal journey, and the impact of art in public spaces. It serves as a reminder that art is not just confined to galleries and museums but aims to interact with the community in vibrant and engaging ways.

To watch a timelapse of the transformation of the shipping container, click here.