Ayelet Brooks is an artist and dance school operator. She discusses her connection to Point Cook with Jaidyn Kennedy
Tell us a little about yourself and what you do?
I was born in Melbourne and from early childhood, I’ve always been drawn to both dancing and painting. Twenty-one years ago, I fulfilled a lifelong dream and opened my own dance school in Point Cook, which still runs today. It’s been incredible to see some of my first students now teaching at the school. Alongside dance, I studied graphic design, animation and completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts at Monash University, specialising in glass. My two passions: dance and visual art, have always guided me through life and I feel most at home when creating, teaching and sharing art with others.
What is your connection to Point Cook?
Point Cook has been my home and creative base for over two decades. It’s where I built my dance school and raised my family. Watching the area grow and forming meaningful connections within the local community has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey.
Where do you like to spend your time in Point Cook?
When I’m not teaching dance or painting, I love grabbing a coffee at a local café or going for long walks along Skeleton Creek and Saltwater Coast.
Which local landmarks or natural features inspire you most artistically?
I love the Cheetham Wetlands, especially in spring time. Looking out from the observation tower and seeing the many colours and textures of the land is always inspiring. In my artwork, I paint portraits of people within their surroundings, whether urban or natural. Recently, I completed a mural at the Point Cook Community Centre, collaborating with senior citizens to portray the local flora and fauna of Point cook.
What is your favourite thing about Point Cook?
I like the local parks and the green open areas scattered between the houses, it creates a sense of calm and beauty.
What is something people might be surprised to know about you?
I have banana trees in my garden that never produced any bananas. I decided to see if I could make use of them . After a bit of research, I discovered that I could extract banana fibre from the trees. Now, I create rugs and wall pieces from the banana fibre. It’s a long process that requires patience, but it’s also incredibly rewarding and a lot of fun! You can see some of the pieces at @mugiacups on Instagram
Is there anything you would change or fix about Point Cook?
I would love to see better public schools and more universities in the western suburbs, so that children here have the same opportunities in life as those growing up in the eastern suburbs. I would also like to see more community studios, mural walls and performance areas where creativity can flourish.
