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Ardern mural showcased in new book on silo art
The artist painted the mural in response to the Christchurch mosque massacre in 2019
Mark Phillips
ONE of Brunswick’s most beloved landmarks has been featured in a new book on Australian silo art.
The mural of former Jacinda Ardern, painted by Loretta Lizzio on the Tinning Street silo in 2019, is a highlight of the Australian Geographic coffee table book, Silo Art, Australia’s Outdoor Art Revolution.
Lizzio painted the 18-metre tall image as a personal response to the Christchurch mosque massacre on March 15, 2019.
Based on an iconic photo by Hagen Hopkins, it depicts Ardern – in a head scarf – hugging a Muslim woman days after the mass shooting which claimed the lives of 51 people worshipping at two mosques. Facing south, it overlooks the Upfield railway line and shared path.
Gold Coast-based Lizzio worked for free over nine days to complete the mural following a crowdfunding campaign led by residents of The Commons apartment building.
Interviewed in the book by author Alasdair McGregor, Lizzio said her aim had been to unite people through her art.
“The energy of a community should guide the direction of public artwork,” she said.
“My decision to create a silo mural of Jacinda Ardern was a tribute to universal hope and acceptance.
“The artwork was created to unite people, fostering a sense of belonging through a connection to art. To me, that’s the essence of the silo art movement.”
Featuring examples of silo art from around the nation, Silo Art, Australia’s Outdoor Art Revolution is a 192-page coffee table book with full colour photos accompanied by McGregor’s commentary. Retailing for $59.95 it is available in bookstores and via australiangeographic.com.au
