Maribyrnong Creative Places
Katie HALL (Footscray) (13:13): On Friday I had the pleasure of visiting some local artists who have set up shop in the heart of Footscray. The City of Maribyrnong, with $90,000 in funding from Creative Victoria, have embarked on a fantastic urban renewal program, bringing vibrancy to our CBD. Creative Places activates empty shopfronts by temporarily transforming them into studios, galleries and workshops, showcasing amazing talent from Melbourne’s inner west. Instead of empty shopfronts attracting rubbish or graffiti, activated spaces bring community together to make, learn, watch and share. This program brings together two of my favourite things: urban renewal and the arts. I commend the City of Maribyrnong for their work and thank Creative Victoria for their contribution. Liew Ceramics, The Rest of Us, Debris Facility and World’s Worst Wagga Guild are just some of the artists taking residency in the heart of Footscray until 31 March. Residents can pop in whilst doing their shopping or look online for specific workshops and events. Although it is a pilot program, I look forward to seeing innovative approaches to urban renewal, especially ones that activate local creative workforces and promote the creativity and wonder of the inner west.