Released 05/03/2021 - Joint media release
A group of students from Erindale College have today completed a striking street art mural of local BMX and mountain biking world champion, and former student of the College, Caroline Buchanan.
“The art mural on Tocumwal Lane and Petrie Plaza in the City is a great way to celebrate International Women’s Day on Monday, featuring one of our City’s female role models,” Minister for Women and Minister for Sport and Recreation Yvette Berry said.
“Young artists have had a chance to meet and speak with Caroline, develop their skills as street artists and create a bright and bold piece of art that showcases female strength and empowerment,” Minister Berry said.
The wall featuring the mural was provided by the Canberra Centre. The mural project, through the ACT Government’s street art program, was developed by artist and illustrator Bohie Palecek.
In preparation for the street mural, Bohie worked with seven students from Erindale College, 16 to 18 years of age, at a series of workshops throughout the week.
“Caroline is not afraid of facing challenges and has overcome injury and set-backs to be a leader on the world stage in her sport,” Minister Berry said.
“Caroline’s positive talk to these young people with the YWCA, as she prepares to hopefully qualify for her third Olympic Games in BMX racing at the Tokyo Olympics, is something they will not forget.”
Minister for City Services Chris Steel also congratulated artist Bohie Palecek and the students on the art mural.
“The ACT Government has been investing in a series of street art murals across our city since 2017 and last year we increased this program as a way to support local artists at the height of the pandemic,” Minister Steel said.
“Having Bohie and her team of young artists work together on the mural is another example of how street art can enrich and contribute to the character of our urban spaces.
“It will also give these young students a sense of pride in the community and brighten up the City benefiting all who walk by.”
Some of Bohie’s other street art works include the PCYC building in Turner, the Kambri district at the Australian National University, Narrabundah 2 Sports Pavilion as well as inside the University of Canberra.
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Yvette Berry, MLA | Chris Steel, MLA | Media Releases