Local family centre gets a lick of paint with meaning

Local family centre gets a lick of paint with meaning

1554
Art vs Depression founder Gavin "Gracey" Grace with his latest mural. Photograph - Richard Polden.

Locally renowned artist Gavin “Gracey” Grace has put the finishing touches on another colourful mural with a strong message.

His newest piece graces the walls of the Armadale Community Family Centre and complements the centre’s newest inclusion, a purple bench that recognises and honours the lives of women who have fallen victim to family or domestic violence.

The Arts vs Depression founder said he felt the mural helped to create a fantasy-like garden for everyone who attended the centre.

“The inspiration for this mural comes from my own childhood experiences as a survivor of domestic violence where in times of trauma or fear I would close my eyes and imagine I was playing in a magical garden as a coping/safety mechanism,” he said.

“Art has been and still remains one of the most powerful human tools available that can inspire, empower and connect people.

“Its importance as a voice and beacon for the voiceless, a vehicle that can transform our pains into beauty and uplift all people is undeniable.”

Centre project officer Freya Whitton said the eye-catching mural adds much-needed colour to the area.

The mural was funded by Linkwest under the Neighbourhood House Week project and was officially unveiled last week.