The sun was fierce and the heat intense, but creativity still took centre stage at Gipps Street Recreation Precinct earlier this month. Across 2 afternoons in January, a small group of young people came together to help shape a new mural that will soon bring colour and personality to the Youth Zone.

The first day focused on ideas gathering. Through a series of hands-on activities led by artists Daniel Walton and Scott Nagy, participants brainstormed themes, colours, stories and imagery. There was plenty of discussion, sketching and bouncing ideas around, with Daniel and Scott harnessing the group’s energy and encouraging them to think big about what the mural could represent.

On the second day, it was time to paint. Spray cans were in hand and excitement was high as the group put techniques into practice and experimented with colour. You could feel the buzz - first inside, then outside under the bright sky. The young participants really got into it, so much so that they didn’t want to pack up at the end!

These workshops gave local young people an opportunity to contribute to the design of an 11-metre mural wall behind the half-court at the precinct. Now a blank canvas, the wall is set to become a space for storytelling and self-expression, reflecting the creativity and perspectives of young people in Penrith.

If you missed the workshops, there’s still time to get involved. Ideas are also being gathered on Your Say Penrith until the end of January 2026. If you are aged between 12 and 24yrs or you know someone who is, encourage them to share their ideas and be part of the project.

Mural painting will take place in March 2026, ahead of the official launch during Youth Week celebrations from 16 to 26 April 2026.