Local Artist Creates Stunning Mural for Heritage Lodge

05/05/2023

Heritage Lodge recently underwent renovations to part of the home, and the team was determined to bring the newly landscaped courtyard to life. Wanting to create something truly special, the team turned to residents for their input, and the idea of a mural was easily the most popular choice.

One staff member, who had been familiar with a mural at the flood-affected Greenhill’s Aged Care in Murwillumbah, reached out to the talented artist Christian from The Sauce Studio to commission the project. When asked about his creative process, Christian said, “I developed a concept that reflected the local area’s natural beauty and a scene to which many residents could relate. The design entails Wollumbin and surrounds and was painted on Bundjalung country.”

Christian wanted the work to have a positive impact on the residents at Heritage Lodge, “The best part about public art is being able to reach a wide audience, many of whom would not normally engage with visual art. During the painting process, I became aware the mural serves a diverse audience of staff, visitors and residents. My aim was to complement the recent upgrades in the courtyard area to increase use of the outdoor space and encourage enjoyment of a moment of fresh air, birdsong and blue skies.”

Christian completed the mural over the Easter weekend, and the result was nothing short of breathtaking. He even took suggestions from residents, adding birds to the design.

Heritage Lodge Lifestyle Assistant, Keeley, comments, “Residents have absolutely loved it, as well as their families, and it has become an area where they can go to spend time together. I’ve received feedback about how talented the artist is and how amazing it was to watch him work while he was painting the mural.”

Residents Marleen and Doug share their thoughts on the repurposed space, Marleen says, “It is so beautiful and such a nice area to sit of a morning and watch the sunrise.” Doug adds, “The mural is amazing, and the artist is extremely talented.”

Meet the man behind the mural, Christian, aka ‘Sauce.’ (Photo 1) He started his art business, The Sauce Studio in 2001, after beginning his career as an aerosol artist in 1994. During Christian’s early career, he facilitated community and youth arts projects however, more recently he has been focusing on commissions and large-scale public art. “I have been lucky to see a lot of Australia through my work. When I’m not travelling for regional projects I’m creating in my studio in the Tweed Valley and I also enjoy listening to heavy metal and gardening. The Sauce Studio team also consists of a dog called Mac who supervises and oversees general operations.” (Photo 2)

The addition of this stunning mural has truly brought the courtyard to life. Encompassing the natural beauty of the area and creating an inviting space for residents, staff and visitors.

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