1 April 2019
The Wall-to-Wall festival is nearly upon us and Winton Wetlands will host one of this year’s featured murals. The staff and volunteers at Winton Wetlands and the Mokoan Hub & Café are very excited to welcome renowned street artist Andrew J Bourke (Sirum) to the wetlands this weekend to turn the main interior café wall into an eco-inspired masterpiece, capturing the ecological essence of the site.
With a deep curiosity for the natural world, Andrew’s work is inspired by the energy and beauty that is found within nature. “Since I was a child, I have found myself curious of the natural world … Drawn to the smallest of details, I look to find the space in-between” said Andrew.
This passion for detail is seen in Andrew’s finely observed graphic work, and his deft use of colour. Having refined his craft over many years as an urban artist, Andrew moves between the mediums of aerosol, house paint, charcoal and acrylics with considerable skill. His work is distinctive for its rich and vibrant colour, technically accurate, fast, free-flowing line, and ambition of scale.
Andrew’s mural work can be seen around the streets of his hometown Melbourne, and throughout much of the Australia thanks to his extensive travels in search of inspiration. It is his love for “country” that has led to Andrew’s passion for photography, a further extension of his creativity and often becoming a source of reference that flows back into his work.
Many of Andrew’s artworks can be seen around Benalla including the ‘Kelly Snake’ at Fruits N Fare and Ned Kelly at Rambling Rose. Like these murals, the café wall will reflect its surroundings and feature two local threatened species; a Growling Grass Frog and a Tree Goanna.
While the painting is taking place, the Mokoan Hub & Café will remain open (9am-5pm), continuing their wonderful customer service and serving a delicious menu. A range of options will be available including vegan and vegetarian as well as gluten and dairy-free meals as well.
The Wall-to-Wall event hosted at the Mokoan Hub & Café is a must-see event and will require bookings for a table. Please contact 0429 423 659 or cafe.manager@wintonwetlands.org.au.
