The public art landscape within Mount Gambier continues to expand as artist Scott Coleman, otherwise known as KAB101, transforms the blank 20 metre space in Commerce Arcade into a mural as part of the City of Mount Gambier Creative Arts Fund program.
KAB101 began his artistic career as a teenager in the 1980s working with the Riddoch Art Gallery on street art projects to activate laneways in Mount Gambier, including a series of murals at Odeon Plaza and the laneway between Commercial Street and Caldwell Street.
“One of Council’s aims for the Creative Arts Fund is to facilitate a city brought to life with public art, so to have KAB101 return to Mount Gambier to create one of his signature murals is very exciting,” City of Mount Gambier Arts, Culture and Development Officer Serena Wong said.
“KAB101 is well-known across South Australia, and nationally, for his large scale murals featuring his trademark calligraphic style, and we are looking forward to have our own piece right here in the city. Seeing artists return to their beginnings and bring their skill and connection back to the region is very special.”
The colours of the Blue Lake, geographical layers, flowing winds and the change of seasons are the inspiration behind the mural. KAB101 hopes his latest creation will enhance the space and bring life to the area.
“I just want this painting to be appreciated for its vibrancy to the area,” KAB101 said.
Public art is good for the soul, it keeps areas vibrant and allows a connection to the area, it creates communication and opens ideas.- KAB101
As the mural unfolds, the artistic process is capturing the attention of interested onlookers passing through the busy laneway to Commercial Street.
“I start with a base coat of prominent colours. I then sketch over the top and use a selection of colours to enhance and give the piece its subtle impact.”
“Then I do what I do, I may layer colours to cut the edge of each one or just outline each feature. It presents itself naturally, but is mentally concentrative.”
The mural is expected to be completed by the middle of next week.
KAB101‘s mural is one of four projects to receive Creative Arts Funding in 2020/2021 at a total cost of more than $44,000.
Media contact: City of Mount Gambier Media and Communications Coordinator Sharny McLean on 8721 2401 or smclean@mountgambier.sa.gov.au
