by Janelle (
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I like to participate in life rather than be a spectator. Music, dancing, theatre, travelling, food, cycling and walking are some of my passions. Writing is an enjoyable pastime that allows me to share my experiences.
You can find me outside Frontline Hobbies (image JW)
Take a walking tour of Newcastle to investigate the whereabouts of some local identities. The pillar people has been a project of local businesses and the Newcastle Now organisation to breathe new life into the city. Local artist Rebecca Murray from Teralba's
Flying Spanners Gallery has been painting one mural a month on ugly telecommunications pillars and unsightly electrical boxes. The Civic Precinct of Newcastle CBD is
changing and these quirky pieces of street art are an integral part of the change.
Where am I? (Image JW)
Location map (image from website)
Finding the pillar people and the underwater murals could be an enjoyable family
school holiday activity or a daily treasure hunt for locals. The characters are linked to their locations by a present-day or historical happening.
Police dog (image JW)
To my mind, the artwork is beautiful and sensitive in the portrayal of local figures who may or may not be based on real people. I love the look on the face of the Police dog and the cheeky grin on the cute little superhero.
A blushing bride (image JW)
I have yet to meet all the
pillar people but am always happy when I renew old acquaintances. The artist has hidden interesting details as well as quite a bit of humour and personality into the murals.
Give us some soul (image JW)
The streets of Newcastle have a lot to offer if you get out of your car and start strolling. Just a word of warning, some of the pillar people may be difficult to discover due to the ongoing construction work in Hunter Street.
Some of the faces you will see (image JW)
