The Onslow water tank project goes back to a blank canvas

The Shire of Ashburton will go back to the drawing board for a project that would see the history of Onslow emblazoned on the towns water tanks The project was thrown into disarray last month when renowned artist Guido Van Helten walked away from the project after disagreements with the Shire of Ashburton over the mural’s design. Mr Van Helten, who spent seven weeks in the coastal town while he came up with his design, accused the Shire of rejecting his design because it was “too indigenous.” Plans to transform the facade of the water tanks began in 2018 when the Shire went through a request-for-quote process to award the contract for the works. In February 2019, the Ashburton tourism development committee recommended council proceed with the project. A contract was signed between Mr Van Helten and the Shire last November. At the June meeting local councillors passed a motion to continue with the project and establish an artwork selection working group — including community members — to assist in overseeing the delivery of the project. A shire officers’ report stated the organisation never referred to the mural as being “too indigenous”. The motion comes after the Shire’s general meeting of electors put forward a petition for council to recommence the project and repair its relationship with Mr Van Helten. Shire of Ashburton President Kerry White said the Council appreciated the feedback and strong sentiment from the community. “We were disappointed that the project was interrupted and have been looking at ways in which we can continue the project supported by funding partners Water Corporation and Regional Arts WA, and have also sought legal advice on best way to move forward,” she said. Ms White said the Shire had been advised the failure to observe obligations to the initial agreement with Mr Van Helten meant it was no longer binding. “A revised scope is being prepared that showcases Onslow as a diverse and dynamic town in the North West of Western Australia inclusive of its history, heritage, culture and emerging future,” she said. “It will also include a term of reference that will set out a confidentiality provision in relation to the artist’s design, and any pictures of persons included in the artwork should provide their written consent to avoid concerns with the previous quote.” Ms White said the Shire was investigating further the contractual terms between the Mr Van Helten and Council to release the previous artwork to the community. The Canberra-born artist is known for his photo-realistic murals and has worked around the world. The tanks project was funded by the shire, Water Corporation and Regional Arts WA.