For local artist Jonny Scholes, creating art in public spaces is as much about connection as it is about colour.

As the world marks World Art Day, the City of Hobart is celebrating the power of public art and its ability to turn our streets and laneways into living galleries.

_{A mural by Jamin commissioned by the University of Tasmania, visible from Elizabeth Street.}

Mr Scholes, who has been making street art in the city for nearly two decades, said it is “crucial” to have artists working in public spaces.

“Not only do they make places interesting and beautiful to be, but they also hold up a mirror to ourselves and to society,” he said.

“You can choose not to engage with galleries or museums, but the beautiful thing about public art is it has to be for everyone because everyone has to see it.”

Under its Public Art Framework, adopted in 2019, the City is working to integrate more public art across Hobart - from landmark commissions and temporary installations to community-led murals and playful projects for children.

_{Bidencopes Lane is a hub of street art for Hobart.}

Public art with purpose

Jane, from the City’s public art team, said the goal is to make art part of everyday life in Hobart.

“We see public art as a way to reflect who we are as a city,” she said.

“It gives us a way to celebrate our stories, challenge our perspectives and invite moments of surprise in the places we move through every day.”

Jane said street art helps to foster a sense of shared ownership, giving people a connection to a place and a feeling that the city belongs to everyone.

Earlier this year, the City renewed its commitment to waive development application fees for art and murals facing public spaces, making it cheaper for artists to tackle these works.

_{Colourful artworks cover the walls of Bidencopes Lane.}

Making ideas visible

Mr Scholes said collaboration between artists and councils is key to turning creative ideas into impactful public works.

“Councils can provide access, a platform, and resources that an artist may not have on their own,” he said.

“They can help take an artist’s work and put it into a place where it’s going to be seen by more people and the message will spread further.”

_{Jonny Scholes says its vital for artists and councils to work together.}

Backed by layers of colour and texture in Bidencopes Lane - a place he described as a “mecca for street art in Hobart” - Mr Scholes encouraged others to give public art a go.

“Whether it’s something abstract and beautiful or a powerful political message, it’s an opportunity to speak to people – and what’s the world if we’re not speaking to each other?”