Energy company puts spark into Byron Bay Art Project | Northern Rivers News | Local News in Northern Rivers

Artists Chris Rowland and Tom Burrey (left) with Deborah Pearse from the Byron Youth Service, Sally Preston who is co-ordinator

Country Energy has put a fresh spark into the Byron Bay Community Art Project by becoming its major sponsor.

It comes after months of voluntary work by artists and organisers, Byron United and the Beautiful Byron Committee.

Over the last few months, indigenous and aerosol artists have given generously and voluntarily of their time to create two stand-alone prototype artworks on Country Energy electricity poles and sub-stations.

Byron United president Ed Ahern said he was very pleased to acknowledge the generosity of Country Energy in supporting such a wonderful community initiative.

"The $4000 Country Energy is providing ensures that we can continue the great work of these artists," he said.

"Their artwork has added such much-needed colour and character to the town."

Beautiful Byron Committee organiser Sevegne Newton said the response from Country Energy and the Keep Australia Beautiful Tidy Town assessor to the project justly reflected the enthusiasm, passion and dedication of the artists.

"We attempted with this project to reach out to two groups in our community that are often marginalised," she said.

"The work of Joey, Howie and Danza has led to a greater understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal culture and its part in our town.

"The positive response from visitors and residents has been simply overwhelming, with hundreds of responses in a feedback book. As a result of their work around town all three have taken up teaching art classes in our local schools."

Deb Pearse from Byron Youth Services has worked alongside the Beautiful Byron Committee in organising the painting of three sub-stations with young and very talented aerosol artists.

"Aerosol art is a hugely popular means of expression for our youth and the artists have successfully managed to get the Keep It Clean message across," Sevegne said.

"While it is not to everyone's tastes, it does speak to young people, and I hope older generations can accept and recognise this."

Next up for the Country Energy Byron Bay Community Art Project are the two heavily vandalised sub-stations at Woolies Plaza.

Country Energy spokesman Mike Hely said Country Energy was a strong supporter of community initiatives and recognised the potential this project had to enhance the Byron streetscape.

"Our poles and padmount transformers are prime targets for vandals, so rather than continue to spend money cleaning off graffiti, we thought it would be worthwhile to join with Byron United and try a different approach," he said.

Money is still being raised for the Jonson Street Surf Alley project, with $2000 donated by La La Land, $1500 from Billabong and a further $500 from the Byron Bay Malibu Club and Byron Bay Boardriders.

If there are any local artists interested in being involved in the art project, they can contact Byron United.