Title: St Albans
Artist: Aretha Brown
Year: 2024
Location: St Albans Community Centre – 33 Princess Street, St Albans
This mural captures the essence of Melbourne's west, highlighting key elements such as cyclists navigating busy streets, the mangroves drifting into Hobsons Bay, fishing from the Altona shoreline, and plums bought from the bustling St Albans Market. In addition to the ubiquitous powerlines and industrial landscape of the west are symbols representing Aboriginal women from the artist’s Gumbaynggirr tribe in Nambucca Heads, New South Wales.
About the artist
Aretha Brown (b. 2000) is an Aboriginal youth activist and artist celebrated for her contributions to advocacy and the arts. She attended Williamstown High School, further nurturing her passion for activism and creative expression. Aretha's work reflects her diverse life experiences, drawing from her upbringing in the Western Suburbs and her queer and Indigenous identity. Her artwork has earned her broad recognition, including numerous murals throughout Melbourne and abroad, as well as being exhibited at the NGV.
A staunch advocate for Indigenous rights and social justice, Aretha has spoken at numerous rallies in Melbourne and on platforms such as the National Indigenous Youth Parliament. Her historic role as the first female Indigenous Youth Prime Minister of Australia was a significant milestone in her advocacy, where she engaged with national leaders and garnered respect from peers and supporters. Her work exemplifies the intersection of art and activism, highlighting the contributions they make in amplifying underrepresented voices and fighting for positive change.