The Stafford Skate Centre served as the inspiration behind “Just Roll With It”, a vibrant artwork by artist Grace McFarlane, on a signal box located near the intersection of Webster Road and Billabong Street, completed last month under the Artforce Brisbane initiative.
This eye-catching artwork completed in 2024 November, located near the intersection of Webster Road and Billabong Street, celebrates the legacy of the Stafford Skate Centre, blending bright floral designs, roller skate imagery, and thoughtful symbolism.
The skate lace winding through the mural represents the Brisbane River, connecting Stafford to the larger Brisbane community. Assisted by Jake Fink and Kier Spilsbury, Ms McFarlane’s mural tells a story of nostalgia, connection, and hope.
A Tribute to Stafford Skate Centre
The Stafford Skate Centre was once a beloved community hub, and ‘“Just Roll With It” captures its essence with bold, retro-inspired imagery. Every detail of the mural pays homage to the joy and connection the skate rink brought to generations of locals.
Through thoughtful design and vibrant colour choices, Ms McFarlane has preserved the memory of a cherished local landmark while celebrating the evolving identity of Stafford.
The Role of Artforce Brisbane
‘“Just Roll With It” was made possible through Artforce Brisbane, an initiative managed by Urban Smart Projects. The program empowers artists to transform traffic signal boxes and public spaces into meaningful works of art, creating shared spaces for connection and storytelling.
Artforce Brisbane continues to support local creativity, enabling artists like Ms McFarlane to leave lasting impressions on their neighbourhoods.
Community Connection Through Art
The mural has quickly become a focal point in Stafford, sparking conversations and fostering a sense of pride among residents. Public art projects like “Just Roll With It” show how creativity can transform everyday spaces into places of connection and meaning.
A Lasting Legacy for Stafford
More than just a mural, ‘“Just Roll With It” serves as a visual reminder of the suburb’s past while looking towards its future. Each brushstroke captures a piece of the suburb’s identity, ensuring the legacy of the Stafford Skate Centre lives on.
Projects like “Just Roll With It” highlight the importance of public art in building vibrant, connected communities. As Artforce Brisbane continues to grow, the mural stands as a testament to the power of creativity in shaping public spaces. To learn more about ‘“Just Roll With It” and other Artforce Brisbane projects, visit Artforce Brisbane’s official website.
Published 28-Dec-2024