Keith Haring mural vandalised with graffiti

VANDALS have desecrated a heritage-protected mural in Melbourne’s north. Australia’s only surviving mural by world-renowned artist Keith Haring has been seemingly untouched for more than 30 years.

A Keith Haring mural has been damaged by vandals. Picture: Supplied by Frank Cotela

VANDALS have desecrated a heritage-protected mural in Melbourne’s north.

Australia’s only surviving mural by world-renowned artist Keith Haring has been seemingly untouched for more than 30 years.

But on Saturday, Collingwood locals found it covered in black graffiti, the name “Keith Renks” scribbled along with a love heart.

Haring, an American artist and social activist known for his political work the world over, died in 1990 after contracting AIDS.

During a fleeting visit to Melbourne in 1984, he painted the mural on the wall of the then Collingwood Technical College — it’s one of just 31 known murals by Haring worldwide.

Frank Cotela was driving on Johnston St on Saturday morning when he discovered the damage.

“I remember when it went up back in 1984,” he said.

“It’s never really been tagged by the graffiti guys — it’s really disappointing.”

Graffiti enthusiasts took to Instagram to discuss the damage, one praising the vandals for their “excellent work”.

Others were quick to condemn the crime, but one responded with “nah it’s sweet they’ll just fix it up in a few weeks”.

The mural was added to the Victorian Heritage Register in 2004.

Just 18 months ago, it was unveiled to the public after being restored to its former glory by Arts Victoria.

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