The death of street art in Perth
It is clear to see street art is flourishing in Perth with new and exciting works continuously popping up. But sadly last weekend we noticed one of the most incredible murals we’d seen in Perth has been demolished, all in the name of progress.
This massive mural, which was free to see in the open air carpark in Murray Street, Perth is now an unforgettable memory.
What was once plain and uninspiring brick walls was transformed into a vibrant, lively picture mural. True to the context of street art where nothing is permanent, this captivating mural had been an integral part of Perth’s artistic culture, thanks to FORM since 2014.
Our urban landscape has been enriched with a push from City of Perth to create a cultural infrastructure in open spaces. Utilising the streets as open air exhibition space it is clear to see that the artists’ talents were appreciated by both local viewers and tourists.
The mural was a collaboration painted by 3 artists, Gaia from USA, Beastman from Sydney and Vans the Omega from Adelaide.
The design flows along the wall at the roadside with Gaia’s black and white mural called Dementia. The mural begins with a collage of moments from planning and development of the CBD. It includes Perth businessman Alan Bond and shows Perth buildings including Government House, His Majesty’s Theatre and the State Theatre. It also features Gordon Stephenson, who made a profound contribution to the planning and development of the city of Perth.
The wall then picks ups some colour graduating into a depiction of wetlands from a collage of moments from the city of early modern planning to skyscraper development in the CBD.
As the wall continues it is then transformed with bright, multicolour swirls and a kaleidoscopic bubblegum euphoria of geometric and prismatic colour.
The mural is finished with a 60’s inspired abstract, mannequin like face.
Street art is seen as transient phenomena, repurposing plain walls into momentary grandeur. It is nice to see some of the bland and unattractive walls uplifted as the artists leave their mark. And even if it is only temporary, street art is definitely flourishing in Perth.
Do you agree while it’s a shame this vibrant mural was demolished with the wall, it was worth transforming an otherwise boring carpark for 3 years? What do you think about our street art in Perth?
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So sad that these beautiful street arts are removed. I hope that after the government improved the city, I hope they lend a wall after the development and still let these artists make another wonderful masterpiece.
The building is still in progress so not sure what is replacing this beautiful wall. It was painted in 2014 so I’m sure many got a chance to appreciate it.
So sad that such a brilliant example of street art disappeared forever. I found Perth to be one of the most street art friendly places. There are some amazing murals sprinkled throughout the city. Every time I come back there is something new… and, sadly, a few disappear. I guess, it is a fate of urban art whether we like it or not.
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I guess that is part of the intrigue of street art, it is not meant to be permanent. Look at the likes of Hosier Lane in Melbourne and it is ever changing. I must say we do have some spectacular street art here in Perth and hopefully we’ll have some more incredible new pieces for you to see next time you visit.
Yes, it is sad. Do the artists agree with the destruction ? Do they care ?
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I’ve read that the artists know their artwork may be shortlived. This piece was commissioned so I am sure they will get commissioned to do more pieces throughout the city. But it is sad, this was such a lovely piece and part of it told a great story.
Fabulous example of street art, it’s a shame to see such art being removed. Any news on what will replace it?
Not sure what is being built Clive, it is sad, but that is progress where the old makes way for the new.
It was an excellent piece of art. I haven’t looked into what it is they are building where the carpark was, but I hope it has a few walls that can be brightened up with some more art.
That is a shame … it would have been good if they have an option to preserve the art work. ..i
There was no way to preserve the art and progress with the plans. Sadly this is how it had to be.
Street art is so important, it’s always a good testimony of contemporary life and a lot is expressed through it. Newtown is a Sydney suburb that offers to residents to tell a story through murals and therefore protect their walls from unwanted graffiti. It’s a great initiative.
What is going up instead? It definitely made a car park beautiful. Sadly many great pieces are only temporary.