VALLA Beach's new and improved skate park has just received a colourful and vibrant mural on the roll-in ramp courtesy of local artist Alanna Shorter.
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Previously, only haphazard graffiti and other images adorned the concrete at the old park.
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Inspired by the theme, and after consultation with Nambucca Shire Councils Manager of Infrastructure Services, Matthew Leibrandt, and input from the local community, Alanna created the one of a kind artwork over the last few weeks.
"The koala characters in the mural were inspired by its theme, 'animals linked to the Valla Beach area'," she said.
"Animal characters are also a big part of my work, so it was fun creating a design that fit the space and aligned with the youth culture.
"I've always enjoyed creating art; it's rewarding, turning imaginings into a visual medium."
Growing up with pencils and paintbrushes in hand, Alanna took her love of art and turned it into a thriving career three and half years ago.
Her work has previously been showcased at the annual Sculptures of the Sea and Vivid exhibitions in Sydney.
Locally, her artworks have been brightening up prominent locations on the Mid North Coast, with the Valla Beach Skate Park the latest in a long line of other projects.
"I've been spray painting for a while, both voluntary and paid work; I use acrylic and sculpture mediums too," Alanna said.
"I have a couple of murals in Wallace Lane, in Macksville; I've also done a bunch around the Coffs Harbour area as well."
Like a lot of industries, the arts have taken a severe hit due to the bushfires and now COVID-19 restrictions, and while she has seen a downturn in work, Alanna has already redirected her artistic passion into another project.
Exchanging paintbrushes and spray cans for a pen, she hopes to add the title of fiction author to her resume.
"I was lucky last year to have some work through Open Studio and Saltwater Freshwater," she said.
"I've definitely had a lot less work since COVID-19 started though, but it's been a difficult time for everyone financially; everyone is hurting.
"Currently, I'm working on a fiction novel, which I hope to release sometime this year, or in 2022.
"Writing is a bit different to my visual art, but full of the same imagination and characters."
To see more of Alanna Shorter's work, check out her social media pages, Instagram: @y.o.w.a, and Facebook: Yowa Art.
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