What was a graffiti-covered sound barrier along Memorial Drive at Woonona has been given a facelift courtesy of two South Coast artists.
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Earlier this year Roads and Maritime Services hired Nowra Aboriginal artist Warwick Keen and owner of Port Kembla’s Urban Art Australia Anthony Jones to improve the look of the wall.
Roads and Maritime Services was hoping the mural would reduce the incidence of graffiti on the sound barrier, which they spend up to $100,000 a year to clean up.
“There’s definitely a sense of respect associated with what we do,” Mr Jones told the Mercury while he was preparing his panels for the mural.
“I guess it’s the absence of artwork that is what creates these empty spaces for people to add things to – like graffiti.
“A blank space is pretty inviting for someone looking to spread their name around.”
READ MORE: Mural set to tackle Woonona graffiti problem
Now, northern suburbs motorists have a more pleasing sight that people’s spraypainted tags.
The various panels of the mural include images of wildlife up against the escarpment and whales in the ocean as the sun rises over the mountains.
Another panel reflects the surfing culture of the area, while a cityscape at night is also featured.