Strathfield Youths Fight Graffiti with Art

Students from Strathfield South High School have created murals along fencing along Liverpool Road at Hedges Avenue in Strathfield South. This spot has been notorious with graffitists in the past and it is hoped the new art will work as a deterrent, with graffitists less likely to write over someone else’s work.

The community initiative is a collaboration between Strathfield Council, Sydney Water, Australian Catholic University and Strathfield South High School, with the aim to improve our community.

The artworks have been created by students, some of whom have family memories of refugee camps or lack of access to fresh, clean water on tap. This work is a reflection of their experiences and deep understanding of the need of water for humans to prosper.  This is a fantastic way for these young people to contribute to their new community.

“My Dad is from Nigeria” said 14 year old Crystal “and he has often told us about having to boil water before being able to drink it. We need to be grateful for having a safe, plentiful supply of water on tap” she said.

Baran, whose parents are from Turkey recalls his mother telling him about the women in his mother’s family having to collect water from a central supply in their village. He participated in this project to encourage people to minimise the waste of water and value this incredible resource.

Lara, whose family is from Lebanon and Syria wanted us all to make better choices in regard to an essential resource so that we can ensure supply for future generations.

Thank you to Australian Catholic University work placement students for their support; Sydney Water for the use of the land and of course the students for their creativity and work.

Graffiti is a common, unsightly and expensive problem in our area and others. Council applauds the project team and all our partners for finding such a creative way to combat this issue.

Attending the media launch:

Australian Catholic University – Deputy Head of the School of Education, Dr Miriam Tanti

Strathfield South High School – Simon Paterson, Principal; Karen Maciel, Art Teacher; 5x students

Sydney Water – Paul Mulley, Manger City Shaping; Peter Hadfield, Senior Media & Public Relations Advisor

ENDS

For media enquiries, please contact:

Haley Rennie
Strathfield Council
9748 9993 or 0421 080 036
haley.rennie@strathfield.nsw.gov.au