Lithgow group Out On A Limb saw Micro Grants as an opportunity to create vibrant new community art during Covid-19 restrictions.
The aim of their small project was to engage the imaginations of the people of Lithgow with a new installation focused on the resilience the community. Additionally, the project provided a focal point for families and community members to connect.
The group secured $500 in funding a created Lithgow’s newest, woolliest, works of public art.
Rachel Simone from the group recaps their project:
What did you do with the funds from your Arts OutWest Micro Grant?
The funds were used to buy Australian produced, natural fibres to create two installations in Lithgow, one on the fence at the Greyhound Track and one on the fence at the Tourist Information Centre.
With so many people walking through Lithgow, and tourists now able to travel to regional NSW, “Fancy Free Among the Flowers” highlights the diversity, tenacity and resilience of the people of Lithgow.
The team was so inspired by the work that we were creating that additional installations have been and continue to be created using our own funds/supplies. These included: flowers in the same style were at Rotary Park (among another installation) and figures flowers and animals near the overpass bridge on Wylde St. There are also two more installations that are currently being developed that will feature as part Out On A Limbs work.
What were the benefits gained from your Arts OutWest Micro Grant and how did it help you or others during the Covid-19 crisis?
The grant provided the group with a focus and creative outlet during lockdown. Having a focus encouraged group members to explore fibres, create prototypes and share their experience with each other as they created the works.
To receive the grant, not only enabled the team to purchase Australian made, natural fibres, thereby supporting Australian industries, but it also brought a legitimacy and recognition to the groups work.
Prior to the grant, the group had worked on a voluntary basis, providing all materials and product from their own funds. Additionally, the group established a Facebook page so they could share their work.
Whilst putting up the installations, people who were walking by commented on the work and how it was making their day/walk brighter during this difficult time. Comments included:
- “You have brought a smile to our faces” (Staff at the information centre)
- “Please do more” (passer-by)
- “This is beautiful, thank you” (passer-by)
After putting up the installations, group members have been thrilled to see people pulling their cars over to look at the installations, as well as walking by and looking at the work and sharing photos on their Facebook pages.
You can see these work’s ‘pinned’ to the Public Art map at the new Culture Maps Central NSW site.