Help shape the next stage of public art in Euroa

6 Dec 2024

Strathbogie Shire Council is excited to announce Stage Two of Euroa’s public art journey.

Collectively the Euroa Chamber of Business and Commerce and the Euroa Action Group received $50,000 through the Council’s 2024 Pitch My Project grant to install one or more new public art pieces in Euroa.

Building on the success of the Euroa’s Magpie ‘Swoop the Big Barrwarrang‘ sculpture at the Euroa Seven Creeks Park, this project seeks to strengthen the connection between this iconic work, businesses in and around Binney Street, and existing art within the community garden.

Strathbogie Shire Council Mayor Claire Ewart-Kennedy said the idea of public art and this opportunity particularly, is to create a cohesive and vibrant public art experience across multiple spaces in Euroa. We are a vibrant and growing tourism destination along with high liveability attractiveness so public art is important to our economic and community development.

‘Everyone knows what a drawcard Swoop has become, and the Chamber and the Action Group have received this next grant through Pitch My Project funding to capitalise on art tourism.

‘I encourage everyone to share their ideas and feedback on our Share Strathbogie engagement site. Your input will help shape a detailed brief that we can provide to prospective artists in February, ensuring the final artworks capture the character and stories of our community,’ said Cr Ewart-Kennedy.

Here’s how you can get involved:

  • Possible Locations: Tell us where you’d like to see the new art. Suggested locations include Seven Creeks Park, Binney Street, or other areas of Euroa on Council-managed land.
  • Artwork Themes: Rank your favourite focus areas from history, local flora/fauna, First Nations art, abstract, or your own ideas!
  • Other Ideas: Share your vision, thoughts, or even images of inspiring public art you’ve seen elsewhere.

In line with Council’s Public Art Policy, the final artwork will be selected by a consultative panel, including representatives from the Euroa Chamber of Business and Commerce, Euroa Action Group Inc., Council’s Art and Culture Officer, and an independent arts professional. This process ensures that the chosen works meet criteria such as relevance to local stories, artistic quality, and enhancement of public spaces.

It’s important to note that, unlike the Euroa Magpie sculpture, there will not be a public vote on the final submissions. This change ensures a professional, consistent approach to public art selection.

‘We do want you to share your ideas and help shape a vibrant, connected, and meaningful public art experience for Euroa,’ Cr Ewart-Kennedy added.

Feedback on https://share.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/euroa-public-art-stage-two opened on Monday 9 December 2024, and closes at 5pm on Monday 20 January 2025.