By Alesha Capone
Werribee resident Kurt Zincke has created a gorgeous mural on his gate.
Mr Zincke said he painted the creation because he felt concerned about his neighbours during the pandemic lockdown.
“I don’t have an ability to lower the infection numbers, but I have the ability to change emotions during this ‘dark’ time,” he said.
He said the inspiration behind the mural is the beauty of nature in Werribee and the theme is ‘SPRING IN WERRIBEE’ (emphases on bee).
While painting the mural he said he encountered many passersby on foot and in cars.
“The reactions from some people were priceless, strangers in cars would stop to talk about the mural, how it made them feel and how they appreciated the visual upliftment during this challenging time.
“I would never have the chance to meet so many of my wonderful neighbours if I didn’t decide to paint the gate.”
Mr Zincke said he didn’t see himself as a professional painter, but rather as a student who loves to study art, then practice what he studied.
“As children, we are all artists. We would all creatively paint at pre primary and primary school, draw pictures at home or be expected to express ourselves creatively at church or Scouts, etc.
“Most children will find other interests and grow up to forget about their passion for drawing.
“I see myself as that child who never stopped.”
Mr Zincke, who grew up in Cape Town, South Africa, was introduced to the world of hip hop and graffiti art at the age of 15.
He said he and friends with the same interest formed a graffiti crew and he slowly improved his skills of creative concept and design.
Before coming to Australia he and his art had become well known in his neighbourhood and he had been commissioned to paint many murals.
He has painted a mural on every place of residence he has lived, that had a large enough wall, and in every suburb he has lived.
“By doing mostly community upliftment murals, my name with my artistic reputation was embraced by the residents.”
Mr Zincke said he was always on the lookout for public walls to creative positive murals and is keen to partner with non-profit organisations, residents or businesses.
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