Turning dull grey silos into beautiful pieces of artwork is the very essence of creativity. Australia is a pioneer when it comes to this, with its infamous Silo Art Trail. We’ll tell you the story of how it originated and what have been the impacts since its conception.
In March 2015 the first silo art mural was painted. It was a pilot project initiated by a cultural non-profit organization wanting to bring art to rural communities. Obviously, there was an immense amount of groundwork that had to be covered, and numerous stakeholders were consulted. From the grain handler owner of the silo to the artists themselves – training them to be ready for this gigantic piece of work. Most importantly, the local government and the community made sure the artwork empowered the local culture, heritage, and landscape. That very first silo was painted by two internationally renowned street artists (Phlegm & HENSE) in Northam, Western Australia.
The project was so well received that it initiated the beginning of The Australian Silo Art Trail – a concept started by the Yarriambiack Shire Council in 2016. Colorful artworks are now plastered all over the 40 + towering structures, located predominantly in regional centers of Australia.
How the silos are painted
Thanks to our recent experience with extra-large scale murals, silos, and cooler-tower paintings, we can explain some of the key elements needed before embarking on a project this massive. First, you have to know that once the silo is painted, it’s painted – it will be very hard to go back to the original concrete. Yes, changing the artwork is always possible but due to the costs incurred in implanting such grand work, it is better to get it right from the first attempt.
In addition to community consultation, there are legalities involved. The necessary permits should be in place before the project commences. An artist will not be able to tackle the job and cover more than 5000 sqm of concrete surface on his/her own. And even an artist experienced in large surface work won’t be enough if there is no careful design, planning, and mapping. External help from project managers and individuals with years of expertise on a project like this is what’s needed to make it succeed.
Using the correct technique, understanding paint durability and with the right equipment, painted silos will last for 8 to 10 years before they start to fade. Fading will be very gradual, and if the concrete structure is healthy the artwork will stay for 20 years (to be checked) before it’s replaced by a fresh design, with a new story.
Usually, artworks that live on large-scale public surfaces surfaces are a collaboration between the artists and the residents of the local community. In the production of the Australian Silo Art Trail, experienced artists were paired with local artists who either possessed insights into the local community and the environment or the history of the place. Because of this process, each grain silo turned into an epic work of art provides insight into the true spirit of the region, with each one telling a unique story about its host town.
Why were the silos painted?
The Australian Silo Art Trail is not just a beautiful addition to the local landscape; for many towns and communities, it’s a lifeline. The trail stretches over 600 kilometers and is integral for promoting regional tourism, where life isn’t easy. Many of the small towns where the silos are located were at risk of being wiped off the map due to ongoing drought, declining industry, lockdown restrictions, and other hardships.
“The silos now entice visitors to come out here and maybe spend a few bucks at the local pub, restaurant, and hotel. It has given locals a bit of hope for the future and serious local and international tourism boost.” says Leanne Brosnan, secretary of the Thallon Progress Association.
Art, culture, and heritage create employment and generate revenue for many different industries like Tourism, Construction, Transport, hospitality & many more. Marketing is the top economic benefactor of a Silo Art Trail, which will have a direct social and economic impact on the local population.
Since the popularity of this trail, Silo Art has become a surefire way to draw visitors to small communities across the country. Many people now travel to towns they would otherwise have
never heard of, to see these beautifully decorated silos.
Imagine a silo art trail in South Africa
With more than 238 silos, located in at least 75% of the municipalities in South Africa – imagine a national campaign like the Silo Art Trail to boost tourism in key regions? Or, A brand bold enough to have its next campaign live on a silo? Baz-Art is itching to be part of a life-changing project like this. Above are images of campaigns we’ve pitched that are yet to come to life. We’ve got the expertise, the artists, and the belief that ART SPEAKS louder. Reach out to us and let’s boost our economy through art together!