Northern Beaches Council is asking for community assistance to help make the Northern Beaches Coast Walk from Manly to Palm Beach a uniquely distinct local attraction.
Council is calling for comment on a strategic plan to install public art along the walkway.
The 36km walkway is on track for completion by 2020 with work currently underway to connect sections of the new and existing pathways.
Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan said Council is now exploring ways to connect people and places along the way through public art.
“To truly celebrate and reflect this extraordinary coastal environment, we need a vision for Public Art along the Coast Walk. This vision needs to be shaped by everyone, especially our very passionate and engaged creative community.
“To kick-start this project, $2million over a four-year period has been allocated from Council’s Merger Savings Fund.
“Nine community members from across the Northern Beaches, all with strong artistic backgrounds, have come together to form a working group, helping Council establish a vision and a plan for the project.
“We have engaged heritage experts to undertake a scoping study of the coastline to identify themes, concepts, opportunities and key locations for creative outcomes so we can commission artworks in this environmentally sensitive coastal area.
“You too can now play a part in this. Share your stories about the places you love and have your say.” Mayor Regan said.
“Currently, there are more than 50 artworks installed along the coast, including murals and sculptures. Some will remain, but some may go as the community helps to establish a clear vision and a plan for creating a connected art experience along the Coast Walk.
“As key themes and sites are identified, we will begin the exciting process of creating artist’s briefs to commission new artworks for the community to embrace and enjoy.
“Public art can create powerful connections between communities and their places. Artworks that are deeply connected to the environment, that celebrate and reflect the cultural, social and historic significance of the coastal environment, will create a vibrant connection along the Coast Walk and a reason to walk from place to place.
“Don’t miss this opportunity to share your ideas and thoughts and knowledge of special places to create the public art experience the Northern Beaches Coast Walk deserves. We have several pop us sessions for you to attend and have you say or leave your comments on our website.
“Our breathtaking coastline has the potential to be a unique and memorable walking experience like no other with your help.” Mayor Regan said.
Pop-up sessions will be held between 10am – 2pm at the following locations:
- Manly Beach Promenade - Saturday 21 July
- Newport Beach - Sunday 22 July
- Dee Why Beach - Sun 29 Jul
For more information and to have your say visit northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au