By Stephanie Holliday
SINCE Tank painted his first cow over 20 years ago, he has become a name synonymous with Shepparton’s burgeoning art scene.
Tank believes there is an element of art in everything we do, and he wants to bring it to the forefront of our minds.
Shepparton is, like most regional cities, one with a rich sporting culture. Footy is the backbone of many small towns that dot the Goulburn Valley’s breadth, with sports of every other kind not far behind.
While SAM has been fantastic addition to our city, Tank is calling for a more hands-on hub for artists, and the wider community, to connect.
“It’s time to acknowledge the importance of the arts and invest in a facility for local visual artists and art groups in Greater Shepparton. Just as sports facilities like Deakin Reserve, Aquamoves, the BMX track, the velodrome, lawn bowl clubs, and netball courts are important for physical health and fitness, an arts facility is essential for mental and emotional well-being. It would provide a space for creative expression, personal growth, and community building,” said Tank.
“A facility for local visual artists and art groups will provide a space for artists to create, collaborate, and showcase their work. It would be a space where artists can connect with each other and the community. This will create a vibrant arts scene in Greater Shepparton, attracting both locals and visitors to the area.”
The 2022-2023 budget allocated $79.6M towards Sporting Schools, providing free sporting activities for over 2M students. While nine cultural centres, including the National Gallery, National Museum and the National Archives, will receive a $535M boost, some of these funds could be funnelled into initiatives that impact smaller communities.
“I believe it’s time to recognise the value of the arts and invest in a facility for local visual artists and art groups in Greater Shepparton. Just as the council supports and maintains multiple sporting facilities and clubs, it’s time to provide a similar level of support for the arts,” said Tank.
