High Street will be that little bit brighter next time you see it thanks to Hunter artist Brett Piva.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Maitland Regional Art Gallery commissioned the Newcastle-based painter to create a massive mural at the centre's entrance, in celebration of their ten-year redevelopment anniversary.
The 17m x 5m abstract artwork represents the Hunter River and features elements from the natural environment.
"I'm a huge fan of Maitland art gallery, so to be able to do this is really rewarding for me," Mr Piva said.
While he has painted murals in various locations across the country, including Newcastle, Brisbane and Sydney, this is Mr Piva's first Maitland work.
Manager gallery and libraries Keryl Collard said the centre was happy to support a Hunter-based artist.
"We hope it will inspire people to come explore inside," she said.
Mr Piva spent about four days painting the large artwork.
He said he enjoyed creating abstract art because it allowed him to "loosen up".
"It gives me freedom to play," the artist said.
"I have a background in graphic design and that was a lot of lettering and very structured."
Mr Piva said those passing the gallery as he painted were asking for his interpretation of the work.
But he believes the beauty of abstract art is that it's open to interpretation.
The mural is just the beginning of a series of celebratory events during the gallery's X Marks The Spot exhibition to acknowledge the centre's impact on the cultural life of Maitland and surrounds during the past decade.
There will be events for all ages from Friday through to Sunday.
On Friday evening, the centre will light up a 6-metre tall neon installation.
On Saturday visitors can join the official launch of eight new exhibitions from 3pm.
Sunday's focus is on being the artist, with Free Art Sunday, as well as a special Sunday Studio with artist Suzanne Archer.
For more information about upcoming events at Maitland Regional Art Gallery, visit www.mrag.org.au or contact 4934 9859.