Local artist Tahlia Bennell and students to collaborate on community mural
Emerging Wardarndi and Balardong Noongar artist Tahlia Bennell will transform an everyday wastewater pump station next to Glen Huon Primary School, Eaton, into a creative artwork, as part of Water Corporation’s Splash of Colour program.
Bennell has run a workshop with Year 6 students from the school to share her cultural knowledge of the local water story through dreamtime stories. The students also had the opportunity to provide creative input on the mural while learning about drawing and the use of colour, shade and tone.
The final design will be printed onto banners to surround the pump station on the corner Eaton Drive and Monash Boulevard, adjacent to the school.
Inspired by her father, acclaimed artist and cultural performer Troy Bennell, , the 21-year-old said she had been painting for most of her life and was excited to be involved in the community project.
“I’ve been painting ever since I can remember; about six years-old. I used to sit beside Dad and watch him paint – Dad’s taught me everything I know,” she said.
The Bunbury-born artist said her work was inspired by the ocean, coral and Maambakoort (saltwater), with several pieces featuring the local waterways and fauna connected to her family totem – the green tree frog.
“Coral is the oldest living skeletal organism in the ocean and I like its representation as Noongar culture is one of the oldest in the world,” Bennell said.
The talented Noongar artist has a diverse résumé. She’s a dental assistant, has completed certificates in leadership, community services and business, and was recently one of four Western Australian artists selected to be involved in the first Noongar fashion show for LA Fashion Week.
Water Corporation South West Regional Manager John Janssen said the Splash of Colour program gave students a unique opportunity to work alongside a professional artist and learn about the cultural connection of water.
“Working with local artists like Tahlia, and providing opportunities for the community to get involved in these exciting projects, makes them all the more meaningful,” he said.
“It also offers us an occasion to speak to the community about the cultural, historical and day-to-day significance of water and the importance of conserving it.
“I look forward to seeing the colourful community mural and hope it brightens the day of those who pass it – especially Glen Huon Primary School staff and students.”
So far, more than 40 wastewater pump stations and electrical cabinets in Western Australia have been transformed through the Splash of Colour program.
Track the progress of the program on social media by following #SplashofColourWA
Media contact:
Janine Stewart
Senior Advisor - Customer & Stakeholder
P: (08) 9791 0412
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