The Future Is Now: A Mural by Gloucester Youth

Over two bright days in the heart of Gloucester, five young artists from Gloucester came together to dream, design, and paint a mural that explores the powerful theme: The Future is Now.

With brushes in hand and ideas quietly brewing, our group of 15-year-olds began the workshop with a little nervousness, some shyness, and a whole lot of potential. As we opened up discussion around the future of our rural world, it became clear—these young people were deeply thoughtful, and concerned about the growing presence of technology in natural landscapes.

What emerged from those conversations wasn’t just a painting—it was a meditation. Our final concept beautifully honours the tension and possibility between two futures. In the mural’s centre stands a young figure, ambiguous in gender, gazing into the light of a glowing screen. On the left side—referencing the brain’s left hemisphere—we see a vision of a technological future: a monochromatic sci-fi cityscape with stars, planets, and a flying car disappearing into the night sky. On the right, bursting with colour, is the natural world: our local mountain range, vibrant green forests, a flowing waterfall, a rainbow, sunlight, native birds, and blooming flowers.

Amongst the trees, one of our beloved local artists contributed her signature snake character, entwined in the vines. We suggested it could symbolise transformation—a perfect nod to the mural’s message of thoughtful convergence rather than conflict.

The mural was painted using just the three primary colours, with students learning how to mix their own hues as they brought their design to life. From concept to completion, the team collaborated with care and determination, finishing the full piece in just four hours.

You can now view the mural proudly displayed in the open garden at the Gloucester Creatives Centre. Stop by for a coffee and a moment of reflection—this is a piece that invites you to contemplate the kind of future we’re shaping together.

The "We Are the Future, and the Future is Now!" collaborative mural is a Youth Week 2025 initiative celebrating young voices and their visions for the future. A brainstorming session on April 13 will bring local youth together to share ideas and designs to ensure the mural reflects their perspectives and aspirations. Then, on Monday, April 14, come along and help bring this inspiring public artwork to life—grab a brush and be part of the creativity!

FREE!

@ Gloucester Creatives

Light refreshments will be provided

Design Session 

Sunday 13 April 

12-4pm 

Painting Session

Monday 14 April 

12-4pm 

Gemma Stylz

Explore the power of creativity with Gemma Stylz, a contemporary artist whose bold, symbolic murals bring stories to life! With a passion for meaningful artwork and urban aesthetics, Gemma blends illustration, street art, and visual storytelling to create artwork that sparks imagination and connection. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to turn ideas into large-scale designs and be part of painting a vibrant mural together. No experience needed, just bring your enthusiasm and creativity!

Proudly funded by NSW Government in association with MidCoast Council.

This is a Gloucester Creatives NSW, Gloucester Arts and Cultural Council Inc collaborative event.