Cultural Currents - Mills Lane Mural

Located in Mills Lane, near The Concourse in Chatswood. Designed and created by artist Jodie Pritchard.

Artwork concept

The central theme is inspired by blue and white tableware; a design element that transcends many cultures. This common thread of patterns and symbols is woven throughout the mural, creating a sense of unity and community.

The heart of the design is a harmonious blend of traditional patterns, entwined together and flowing forward, symbolising the dynamic nature of the community. These elements add depth and complexity to the composition, enriching the mural’s narrative and inviting viewers to explore and recognise the imagery representing their culture.

This conceptual expression employs symbolic pattern design, shapes, and linear forms to reflect the community rather than literal depictions. It is a bold, vibrant, and distinctive piece that offers a dynamic representation of Willoughby City’s diverse wealth of communities. The mural will serve as a bridge, connecting different cultures, and fostering a sense of belonging and recognition among all who see it.

Research

Pritchard’s mural design is a vibrant celebration of diversity, drawing inspiration from the traditional art and cultural patterns of Willoughby City’s richly diverse communities. By researching the local demographic, she represents each culture through its unique traditional patterns, creating a mural that speaks to the city’s multicultural essence.

Australia

‘The wattle is a special native to us as Acacia pycnantha, the golden wattle, is the national emblem of Australia and has been a culturally important plant for Aboriginal people for far longer.’ - John Siemon, Curator Manager of Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan *

Chinese

• ‘Xiangyun’ are traditional Chinese stylized clouds decorative patterns.’ ‘Clouds are associated with good luck as the cloud makes rain which moisten all things, and therefore, it brings good fortune to people’*

• ‘A Chinese geometric pattern in red and gold, often associated with good fortune and celebrations. Red symbolizes happiness, luck, and prosperity, while gold represents wealth and abundance in Chinese culture.‘*

English 

‘Acantus’ By William Morris, is a classic Victorian era style that is loved throughout the world.‘ * These leaves are often seen in British art, architecture and design.

French 

‘Fleur de lis’. ‘Traditionally, it has been used to represent French royalty, and in that sense, it is said to signify ‘perfection, light, and life.’*

German

German old-style embroidery, often referred to as Schwaben or Bavarian embroidery, features intricate designs...The style is characterized by its use of bright, natural colors and detailed stitching techniques...’*

Greek 

This is the Ancient Greek Key pattern (Meandros) often associated with ‘infinity’ or ‘the eternal flow of life.’*

Indian

The paisley patterns ‘origins can be traced back to ancient Persia, but it found immense popularity and significance in India.’* ‘The paisley pattern has been a symbol to ward off evil in Hindu culture’*

Irish

The Trinity Knot, also known as the Triquetra, is a Celtic symbol of love, unity, and spiritual growth’* ‘It holds different meanings across several religions’ *

Italian 

‘Spode’s, British blue and white China, Italian collection. The ...’artist...sketches of the scenes he encountered as he made his way through Italy which, later, Spode used and chose to call the Italian Pattern.’*

Japanese

• Japanese Vintage clouds are used in art and design. The combination of waves and clouds is a symbol of ‘eternity.’
• The seigaiha or wave is a pattern of layered concentric circles creating arches, symbolic of waves or water and representing surges of good luck. It can also signify power and resilience. *

• ‘The Uroko pattern is composed of either a succession of triangles.’ ‘It may represent scales of dragons, snakes or even fish. A very old Japanese pattern that protects and brings good luck.’ 

Korean

• These ‘symbols are based on Korea’s traditional clothing called Hanbok.’ ‘This set of symbols is based on plants, geometry and scripture to showcase the beauty and ideology of Korea.’ * The above is also the Chinese symbol of Shou, it represents longevity, or “long life”. Traditional Korean ornament frame pattern. Door and window decoration

• Traditional Korean ornament frame pattern. Door and window decoration

Mediterranean

Mediterranean porcelain blue and white pattern. They are not only decorative elements but also symbols of heritage, tradition and identity. Each tile tells a story, embodying the artistic, religious and architectural influences of the civilizations that created them. 

Scottish

Scottish tartan dates back centuries. It has become recognised worldwide as a symbol of Scotland The Scottish Tartan patterns can be used to identify allegiances to places and people. *

Download mural design breakdown(PNG, 359KB)

Artist bio

Jodie Pritchard is an artist from the UK and has been residing in Australia since June 2023. Her career as a Lead Scenic Artist span over two decades, painting sets and scenery for some of London’s most iconic West End theatre shows, international Olympic/National day opening ceremonies, live events and large-scale murals. She is also a trained graphic designer working on a variety of projects ranging from comedy posters to charity campaigns.

Having spent most of her career realising other people’s visions, Pritchard is now combining her extensive painting and design skills to make her own mark, founding PritchStudios. Her large scale works merge elements from the natural world with strong geometric and typographic shapes. 

Website: www.pritchstudios.com
Instagram: @pritchstudios