A TRAIL of public artworks and sculptures would make Frankston one of the state’s primary destinations for arts and culture, the Frankston mayor says.
Frankston Council is advocating for funding for an arts trail which would run from the Frankston Foreshore to McClelland Sculpture Park and Gallery in Langwarrin. It has contributed $2 million to the project, and is seeking matching commitments from both state and federal governments.
The mayor Nathan Conroy said that the 7.4 kilometre trail would “significantly add to the transformation of our city into a vibrant destination for events, arts and culture.”
“Frankston is renowned for its burgeoning arts and culture scene – thanks to the Big Picture Fest our city now features 56 striking murals and we recently won gold at the 2021 Australian Street Art Awards for best street art tour,” he said. “Throughout August 2020 and February 2021, we asked our community for their feedback and ideas on the issues that matter to them, how we can improve the challenges they face in their daily lives and their vision for the future of Frankston City. Residents told us they love the arts, how its transforming Frankston and that they’re enthusiastic for an arts trail. We’ve listened and that’s why we’re calling on the state and federal governments to partner with us to deliver this exciting project.”
McClelland Sculpture Park and Gallery director Lisa Byrne is supporting the idea. She says the trail would bring a “wow factor” to Frankston.
“The Arts Trail is an amazing opportunity to link the existing vibrancy of the arts and culture offerings across the municipality. It will grow participation through actively engaging the local community and visitors to walk, scoot, e-bike or use their mobility vehicles,” she said.