Mooroolbark Terrace gets Yarra Art Rangers art installation
A run-down suburban shopping centre labelled a “ghost town” could finally get a new lease on life, thanks to an idea from an art group. But the traders association president says what the centre really needs is a new supermarket.
East
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A community art group hopes it can bring some life into one of the Yarra Ranges’ most maligned shopping centres.
Yarra Art Rangers are moving into shops five and 16 in the deserted Mooroolbark Terrace Shopping Centre.
The Mooroolbark Traders and Community Group is helping Yarra Art Rangers launch an artists-in-residence program which they hope will help freshen up the look of the centre.
Yarra Art Rangers founder Mandy Pickett and member Yolande Pickett, from the Mooroolbark Traders and Community Group, want to hear from artists and teachers keen to move into the Brice Ave centre.
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Textile artists are invited to apply to use the unique spaces to exhibit their work, as well as make and sell eco-friendly pieces.
The Yarra Art Rangers also want to hear from any teachers who are interested in sharing their knowledge in traditional, sustainable and regenerative textile arts.
Yolande Pickett said they were excited to make use of the empty shops to offer opportunities to local artists.
“We’re keen to enable community and art projects to be carried out in the space, until the future of The Terrace is finally secured,” she said.
“The potential for these shops is huge and each time we bring artists here their eyes light up at the possibilities.”
In addition to studio space, pop up shops and exhibitions, the space lends itself well to hosting workshops, classes and talks. Places are available until September 23 with applications open until August 31.
Mooroolbark Traders Association president Geoff Earny said the art project and expected work to freshen up the facade of the centre were exciting developments for the community.
“But the traders of Mooroolbark are frustrated that The Terrace still just sits there and doesn’t get what the area desperately needs which is an additional supermarket,” he said.
Mr Earney previously told Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader the centre had turned into a ghost town.
andrew.rogers@news.com.au
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