A new mural has moved onto the Tea Tree Players Theatre!

Local artist Nina Barnden co-designed ‘The Curtain Never Closes’ with Council and the Tea Tree Players.

Ms Barnden created the 3.2m x 9m mural by photo reference. She took a picture of a fellow artist modelling with the group’s props onstage, complemented by in-house lighting. The hatbox even includes a nod to the Tea Tree Players, with ‘R. Lamerton’ referring to founder Robert Lamerton.

“We wanted some ambiguity to be left open to the piece, [creating] a story for other people to interpret,” Ms Barnden said.

“The performance now continues beyond the stage.”

The mural forms part of the Tilley Recreation Masterplan Project. The $9.5 million project is partly funded by the State Government, which is contributing $6.2 million.

Council’s Public Art Project Coordinator Carly Didcote said the City was “extremely privileged” to have Ms Barnden’s first ever mural.

“The mural has activated the space, not only for the Tea Tree Players but also for surrounding community,” Ms Didcote said.

“It creates its own sort of story, and Nina’s composition and the way she's used light sources in the artwork is really incredible.

“It's exciting when a local artist has the opportunity to feel a sense of connection to artwork in their local area.”

Ms Barnden said she hopes the mural brings people “some joy and happiness” when they see it.

“While painting, I met lots of people walking their dogs every day and they always had very positive feedback on it and how it was brightening up the space,” she said.

Ms Barnden said she hopes the mural has a lasting impact on her community, especially the younger generation.

“A big part of my practice is that I want to inspire people, like the artists I looked up to who inspired me,” Ms Barnden said.

“If this can inspire the kids going to soccer or tennis, or even somebody watching a show who wants to explore their creativity, I think that's pretty cool.”