Ravenswood Youth Collaborate on Neighbourhood House Mural Project

Young people in Ravenswood, Launceston had a new opportunity to participate in the visual transformation of their local neighbourhood house this year. Starting Point Neighbourhood House engaged local youth, aged 9 to 15, to take an active role in creating a new mural for the building’s exterior. This project was made possible with support from the Tasmanian Government.

Designing the Mural Together
On March 25, a group of local young people gathered at the neighbourhood house to take part in a dedicated design session. Over the course of an hour and fifteen minutes, they worked together with facilitators to brainstorm ideas and decide what images and messages would appear on the mural. Participants were encouraged to reflect on what their community means to them and how they could represent this through art.

Bringing Colour to the Community
The collaborative approach continued into three days of painting sessions, held from April 14 to 16. Youth worked alongside staff and volunteers from Starting Point Neighbourhood House to transfer their designs onto the building’s exterior. For many, it was their first experience with a public art project, and it gave them a chance to see their ideas turn into something visible and lasting for all of Ravenswood to enjoy.

Involving youth in this kind of project helps foster a sense of ownership and pride in the community. It also offers a constructive way for young people to spend their time during school holidays, building connections with one another and engaging positively with local adults. Starting Point Neighbourhood House has noted that the mural has already generated interest from local families and community members who appreciate seeing young people’s creativity reflected in a public space.

While the impact is primarily local, the project demonstrates how a relatively small initiative—one design session, a few days of painting, and some encouragement—can help strengthen community ties. Starting Point Neighbourhood House’s efforts have brought new colours and energy to their street, with contributions from some of the youngest members of Ravenswood.