Illuminating Eltham Town Square

Nillumbik Shire Council

Eltham Town Square, Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Country, Victoria

Nillumbik Shire, located in the northeast of Melbourne, faced a decline in local commerce in Eltham's activity centre due to the economic impacts of COVID-19. Shop vacancies increased, and foot traffic dropped significantly, impacting local businesses. Recognising the need to support the community and local traders, Nillumbik Shire Council approached us at Artbox to create a solution to re-engage the community.

Our challenge was to reinvigorate the community's connection and restore the vibrancy of the Eltham Town Centre through a creative placemaking initiative. Art-based activations are a tried and tested way to enliven places, augment the shopping experience, and increase visitation and dwell time.

In response, Artbox devised a creative program 'Illuminate Eltham,' in collaboration with Nillumbik Council, local artists, and the artist collective The Indirect Object. The temporary program featured art installations, workshops, and events to capture the community's imagination in the heart of Eltham Town Square. 

Over six weeks in the Eltham Town Square showcased:

• Installation of shadow lanterns fabricated from designs commissioned by nine local artists.

• A series of community workshops resulted in the fabrication of three lantern installations and take-home UV lanterns.

• Three events featuring lighting design, music and soundscapes by local artists, and children's entertainment.

This multi-faceted approach appealed to all age groups, creating a dynamic experience day and night and enhancing the place experience. People expressed curiosity and excitement through accessing art in a new and imaginative way and renewing the local community's connection to the public square.

Featuring artists: Tania Lucas, Penelope Aitken, Nusra Latif Qureshi,Mirranda Burton, Louise Muller, Deborah Bowen, Clare Dwyer, Cate Laidler, Amanda Grant and soundscapes by local composer Aiv Puglielli.