By Parker McKenzie
The pavements of local shopping areas have been lit up ahead of Christmas with the work of local artists, in a project commissioned by the Eastern Dandenong Ranges Business and Tourism.
EDRA membership manager Lynne Trenksy said small local businesses form an invaluable network in our local communities.
“We thought it’s so tough in retail at the moment, that’s the way it is, and this is an opportunity to provide more interest for the local community in particular,” she said.
“You look at the artwork at the same time for a few minutes while you shop local, that’s the message we’re trying to send out.”
Artists have been commissioned to create art across busy shopping strips in Emerald, Gembrook and Cockatoo.
Artist Tracey Roberts, who has a studio in The Patch, said creating her work was a challenge because she hasn’t worked in chalk before in a professional capacity.
“I figured I could still do the research and talk to a professional chalk or pavement artist and get some tips, so that’s what I did,” she said.
“It’s really lovely to have people wander past your artwork and it puts a smile on their face and the kids love it. It’s bright, colorful, and attractive and is promoting the local businesses.”
Nine pieces of art have been commissioned — six in Emerald, one in Cockatoo and two in Gembrook — which will be promoted as a trail on EDRA’s website.
Ms Roberts said she would like to thank EDRA for commissioning the artists for an important community project.
“We’ve got a beautiful place in which we live and it’s important to shop local,” she said.
“This helps support artists and community events so that everybody is having a satisfying experience.”
For more information on the art trail, visit easterndandenongranges.com.au
