Artists create guerrilla gallery to save historic Parramatta sites

September 14, 2020
Issue 
'Yarn bombing' of St Georges Terrace in Parramatta. Photo: Kristi McLellan

Artists, gardeners and knitters have created a "guerrilla gallery" at the historic St George’s Terrace in Parramatta, in protest at the proposed demolition of two of the city’s most significant heritage-listed buildings.

The NSW government is proposing to demolish St Georges Terrace and the historic Willow Grove, to make way for the construction of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS).

281_villa_four_craze.jpg

'...And Breathe' by The Craze Collective. Photo courtesy of crazeco.com.au

Global Gardens Australia and The Craze Collective have installed seven artworks created by local artists and revamped the garden display installed at the site by the Guerrilla Gardeners TV show in 2011.

The artworks symbolise the significance of Willow Grove and the St Georges Terrace and were produced by a diverse team of creators including Konig, Skae, Kristi McLellan, Craze, Mwaniki Wa-Gichia, Zezey, and Jenny Chiu Hwa May.

“Our shared heritage must be preserved, because to know where we are going we must know where we have come from,” said Global Gardens CEO, Richie May.

281_villa_one_konig.jpg

'Save Our History' by Konig. Photo courtesy of The Craze Collective.

The Knitters of MAAS Decoration have also joined forces and yarn bombed the site.

The group of artists and creatives planned the artwork online and came together to transform parts of the site with bright and brilliant artwork.

281_guerilla_gallery_ext_cr_kristi_mclellan.jpg

Putting the finishing touches on the St Georges Terrace Guerilla Gallery. Photo: Kristi McLellan

“The state government has left this place to rot,” said Craze. “I didn't like driving past and seeing what has become of this once thriving area plus I love finding new ways to communicate my art and colour my community.”

The Construction, Forestry, Mining, Maritime and Energy Union (CFMMEU) has placed a Green Ban on the two historic buildings, preventing members from starting any work on these culturally significant buildings.

Community backing for the artistic revamp includes Home and Away star Shane Withington, the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association, CFMMEU, North Parramatta Residents Action Group, Brislington Medical and Nursing Museum and the Powerhouse Museum Alliance.

You need Green Left, and we need you!

Green Left is funded by contributions from readers and supporters. Help us reach our funding target.

Make a One-off Donation or choose from one of our Monthly Donation options.

Become a supporter to get the digital edition for $5 per month or the print edition for $10 per month. One-time payment options are available.

You can also call 1800 634 206 to make a donation or to become a supporter. Thank you.