Cobram's Mivo Park is set to welcome a striking new feature as a mural project commissioned by Moira Shire's Creative Arts Hub begins to take place, transforming the public toilet facilities into a public artwork.
Renowned artist Jimmy Dvate, celebrated for his contributions to silo art projects, including his recent work in Rochester, will lead the transformation. His mural will celebrate Cobram's natural beauty, showcasing the river scenes and local flora, fauna, and birdlife.
In preparation for the mural, Dvate collaborated with local groups to gather images of the area's unique wildlife. This research deepened his connection to Cobram's environment, informing the mural's theme and details.
"With the iconic Murray River an obvious inspiration, the area is hugely important, not only providing water for various industries/irrigation but also a habitat/sanctuary that supports a huge variety of wildlife including many threatened species," Dvate said.
"For this artwork I will create a mural that not only looks great but will also stimulate community spirit and raise awareness of local flora and fauna. The mural will be a celebration of the area, capturing the beauty of such an amazing location."
The mural, expected to attract visitors locally and from interstate, adds to Cobram's reputation as a destination for public art.
"It is exciting to see another public art project taking place in our shire. Jimmy Dvate is a renowned Australian artist who specialises in large scale public murals – we are thrilled that he will be adding to our vibrant arts community with a mural at Mivo Park, Cobram," Chair Administrator Graeme Emonson said.
"Council is proud to have supported this project through a Community Strengthening Grant and commend Arts for All on all their work making this project a reality."
The opportunity to brighten up facility space was well received said Cobram Art Hub, Arts for All member Julie Glance.
"We were thrilled with the response to our artist callout for this project and are excited to have Jimmy Dvate creating a mural in our town. We look forward to watching the progress as Jimmy transforms the toilet block into an incredible piece of public art," she said.
Moira Shire Council acknowledges the project's funding support, which includes contributions from Council's Community Strengthening Grant and Cobram Community Enterprise Funding from Bendigo Bank. The Cobram branch of the Bendigo Bank also generously donated the proceeds of its Easter raffle to the project.
The mural project is set to begin on Tuesday 12 November, with completion expected within two weeks. During this time, the facilities will remain open to the public, with signage and boundaries in place to ensure the artist can work safely. We kindly ask visitors to be mindful when in the area.
