‘Keep Growing’ is the message that artist Michael Fikaris and two Youth from the Yarra Graffiti prevention program painted on a wall last week in the form of a nature inspired mural.

Encapsulated in numerous shades of green and expressions of graffiti elements is a strong sense of nature tones, depicting fauna and flora, sharp shapes and evolutionary aspects.

“The theme is in response to the natural environment and our need to learn more about adapting to our shared future, I think the Yarra community knows the future requires an exploration of change and adaption of new ways to live locally together’ says project director Michael Fikaris.

Through youth mentorships the project, like its subject matter, encourages young artists to keep growing and evolving their practise.

Michael Fikaris is part of the iconic Yarra based– Everfresh and is an Australian multidisciplinary artist whose career has spanned nearly 20 years. For a while now, Fikaris has worked extensively with young artists aiding and guiding them to create meaningful work with the direction of deterring graffiti and tagging. This Project is a continuation of this work.

Instagram -@fikaris_art
Website - www.fikarisart.com

This project was supported and funded by a City of Yarra Stimulate Grant.

WIP (Work in Progress) Mural ‘Keep Growing’ – Photo by Michael Fikaris

WIP Mural ‘Keep Growing’ Assistant Brody Xarhakos – Photo by Michael Fikaris

WIP Mural ‘Keep Growing’ Assistant Brody Xarhakos and Youth Finn – Photo by Michael Fikaris

WIP Mural ‘Keep Growing’ Assistant Youth Finn and Helena painting – Photo by Michael Fikaris