Guido Van Helten, the giant Collie dam mural artist, casts eye to Pilbara town of Onslow for next project

The history of Onslow will be emblazoned on two of the town’s water tanks after the community had the chance to tell their stories to a world-renowned artist this month. Guido van Helten is meeting with the community to hear people’s stories and history in an effort to understand the town before he begins his work painting a mural on the tanks. The Brisbane-born artist is known for his photorealistic murals and recently completed painting Collie’s Wellington Dam wall last month. Van Helten has also completed projects around the world, from the US to Italy and the Middle East. The Shire of Ashburton began the project in 2018 when it went through a request-for-quote process to award the contract to paint mural artworks on the Onslow water tanks. The initiative was undertaken by the organisation to create design ideas that represented the community’s history, spirit, and people. In February 2019, the Ashburton tourism development committee meeting recommended that the council proceed with the project, and later that year, van Helten was awarded the contract. The project was meant to be-gin last year but was delayed because of the coronavirus pandemic. The final contract between van Helten and the Shire was signed in November, with the contract stating works must be completed by June 30. Shire of Ashburton president Kerry White said the Onslow community was excited to be hosting mural artist Guido Van Helten for the coming months as he prepares his concepts for the water tanks. “Our community have been welcoming Guido as he gets to know our area and understand the heart and passion of our Onslow people and way of life,” she said. “I am looking forward to seeing the visual statement as you enter Onslow come to life.” Once van Helten has finished community consultation, he will present two designs to the local council for approval. The artwork is expected to be completed at the end of April and will be funded by the Water Corporation, Regional Arts WA, and the Shire of Ashburton.