By Olivia Condous
Melton’s artistic talent is currently on show for all to celebrate, with two local artists displaying their work in exhibitions.
Elements of Hannah Watts by Christian Hansen is currently being exhibited at Melton Library until November 1 and Julie Zapasa’s Anima Animus exhibition is being displayed at CS Gallery until November 27.
Hansen has lived in Melton for the last ten years and said he always enjoyed going to Hannah Watts Park to relax, but was intrigued by the woman behind the name of the park.
“I wanted to know who Hannah Watts was,” Hansen said.
As an artist, Hansen said he is intrigued by biographical work and colonialism, drawing inspiration from narrative and his surroundings.
“The inspiration is, I walk around and see what inspires,” he said.
Originally born in the United Kingdom, Zapasa now calls Melton home and has been painting for the last thirty years.
Her exhibition explores the themes of mental health and gender roles through abstract depictions of AFL teams.
The idea came to her when she was painting while watching football on television.
“Suddenly it all fell into place, as one work after another morphed into a footy team,” Zapasa said.
“In a weird way, I hijacked an iconic Australian sport and gave it psychological undertones.”
The exhibition is a culmination of her passion for painting, Jungian psychology and mental health, while celebrating sport.
“It’s also an acknowledgement to the AFL for giving us a sense of normalcy during the pandemic,” Zapasa said.
For details on the two exhibitions, visit: www.melton.vic.gov.au/Out-n-About/Arts-culture-heritage/Art-Exhibitions/Current-exhibitio
