Ballarat is a city of rich heritage and history, along with some truly breathtaking architecture.
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Local artist Josh Muir has managed to capture this in his latest artwork, whilst adding in his signature touch of colour.
“I had done something similar for White Night in 2016 for Melbourne, so I wanted to represent my city, and the original custodians of this land,” he said.
Muir’s piece, an eight metre long digital print on aluminum, features some of Ballarat’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Arch of Victory, Ballarat Base Hospital, Lake Wendouree, and Kryal Castle.
These sights have all given a vibrant new splash of colour, as per Muir’s style.
“From the outside, especially in the colder months, Ballarat can look quite dull, so the piece is really about shining some light on the city, which I think looks really good, and highlights the amazing architecture.”
The city sits in front of the Aboriginal flag, which basks it’s light over the landmarks.
“Representing my culture is everything for me, always acknowledging the people who have fought so hard for me to be here today, doing what I love to do.”
The eagle Bunjil (pictured right), who the Wurundjeri people consider their creator, is also pictured in flight in the far right corner of the piece.
Muir, who has been featured in exhibitions all over Victoria, spoke about the BOAA arts festival currently taking place in Ballarat.
“I think it’s been great, to have a biennale like BOAA here is huge because it's a nation wide event.
“For Ballarat people to get amongst it, sharing their stories, and their art to the whole nation, I’ve got to give big ups to everyone who’s been a part of this.
“I feel really blessed to be involved in BOAA, I’m always thankful for opportunities like this, and to be able to be featured in my city like this is great.”
“It's a great platform for me to represent my culture and express myself as a 21st century digital aboriginal, living in a contemporary world, just trying to capture what's around me.
Muir is aware of the responsibility he has as an artist, and is always trying to help those around him find and pursue their passions.
“I've been active in the space for the past eight years, and in that time I've been trying to encourage people to express themselves, whether it be through art, music, sport, whatever.”
The scale of the piece caused some headaches of Muir initially, causing a delay in its completion.
“This took me about a month to put together, I just kept putting it off because it was such a mammoth effort.
“Spending that much time on the computer can fry your brain a bit, but I’m really happy with how it turned out.”
The piece is made up of eight one-metre aluminum segments, set out in a row.
Muir used Melbourne company Print 2 Metal to put together his art.
“Massive shout outs to them, they are the ones who are able to make my vision and designs come to life.”
BOAA is just the beginning for Muir, as he about to be featured at the Koorie Heritage Trust Gallery in Federation Square in Melbourne.
This new exhibition will feature 24 new digitally metal printed pieces, along with a wallpaper and neon installation, three-channel projected animation, and live music.
Muir is one of the hundreds of artists on display during BOAA.
His work is on display at the St Andrews Kirk on Sturt Street.
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