A vibrant new mural has been unveiled in Mills Lane, Chatswood, celebrating the rich cultural diversity of the Willoughby community.
Commissioned by Willoughby City Council and created by artist Jodie Pritchard, Cultural Currents draws on patterns and symbols shared across cultures – woven together in a flowing, wave-like design that reflects movement, identity and connection.
Rather than depicting specific people or places, the mural brings together traditional decorative patterns and cultural motifs, drawing inspiration from the traditional designs found on Chinese porcelain and English bone china, as well as Indian mandalas, Korean traditional clothing, popular Japanese patterns, and more. These are just some of the many visual symbols woven into the mural, representing 13 cultural groups that are among the most prominent within the Willoughby City Council area.
Willoughby City Council Mayor, Tanya Taylor, said the mural is a meaningful addition to the local streetscape.
"This mural beautifully captures the spirit of Willoughby," Mayor Taylor said. "Cultural Currents is a thoughtful and vibrant reflection of the diversity that makes our city so special. It invites everyone to see themselves in it, and to celebrate the stories and traditions that connect us."
Creator Jodie Pritchard is an experienced muralist and scenic artist whose large-scale works combine natural elements with bold patterns and strong visual storytelling. Her design for Cultural Currents was informed by careful research into the local community, resulting in a mural that reflects the people and stories of the Willoughby area.
"This work is about community and connection," said Jodie Pritchard. "Each element is symbolic – a nod to tradition, identity, and the way culture moves and grows."
The mural is one of the first artworks delivered through Council's Emerge Mural Pilot, launched in August 2024 as an initiative of the annual Emerge Festival. The initiative supports artists and encourages community engagement with public art by transforming underused spaces into places of meaning, colour and connection.
Cultural Currents is part of Willoughby City Council's commitment to enhancing public spaces through creativity, inclusion and cultural storytelling.
The mural is located in Mills Lane, just off Archer Street near The Concourse.
