Newcastle's own Mitch Revs wants you to get colouring
It’s so important to continue giving kids real paint, pencils and paper
If you've picked up a jar of Vegemite recently you may have noticed local artist Mitch Revs all over it. The internationally renowned artist and proud local is delighted to have his work spread across the jars with a piece that he says “screams ‘the youth of today’ - which is why I continue to make art”.
For years, Mitch has displayed his original pieces in pop-up exhibitions and back in 2016, the slogan “all paths lead to Junction Fair,” had a ring of truth for Mitch as he set up a pop-up exhibition in the centre.
His unique style uses vibrant colours to depict iconic scenes of the Newcastle lifestyle. Although brief, his exhibition left such a lasting impact on local shoppers that when the centre decided to refresh the space, they simply had to involve him.
Earlier this year, Mitch’s pop-up was made a permanent fixture at Junction Fair, along with updates to the rampway, community noticeboard and other amenities with Mitch saying,
“It's an absolute pleasure to welcome people to the centre with so much colour. These pieces have been created to become a talking point, not just another painting on the wall. Based on the feedback I have received, everyone seems to love and appreciate it also.”
Drawing inspiration from Newcastle, Mitch says “how could you not be inspired by this beautiful city? I have been lucky enough to have been born and raised here. To tell my stories through these artworks and see the positive reaction from the public makes it so special.”
Mitch hopes to inspire the next generation of artists. “I want to inspire kids that are trying to find their way in the world and let them know that a career in arts is possible and positive! I was fortunate to grow up in a creative environment before the digital age. It’s so important to continue giving kids real paint, pencils and paper.”
One way that Mitch and the Junction Fair hope to inspire more local artists is through a Colouring-In Competition. As part of their Christmas Campaign, Junction Fair is distributing Mitch Revs’ line art to local primary schools and also in-centre. The artworks will adorn the Junction Fair throughout December. On December 22, Mitch will reveal three winning pictures.
Mitch also plans to open his own gallery on Hunter Street in December, which “has been a dream of mine since I started this journey. I am looking forward to collaborating with new brands, building relationships and most importantly just making art”.
Head over to the Junction Fair where you can see more of Mitch’s original artwork and shop at over 20 boutique retailers.