A staggering response has been received to Council’s call for artists to exhibit works in the vacant shop windows of central Ringwood as part of an exciting new art project.

The Moving project aims to transform these shop windows into works of art as Ringwood makes its transformation into a vibrant Central Activities District (CAD).

Councillor Alex Makin said 54 entries had been received by artists eager to exhibit and produce a work reflecting the theme of change in Ringwood.

“This massive show of interest means there will now be more than one set of artworks exhibited during the coming months,” Cr Makin said.

“The first exhibition will feature the works of 14 artists and will be gradually installed throughout central Ringwood in November,” Cr Makin said.

“It’s expected than a second exhibition of another 14 works will go on display some time in the new year,” Cr Makin said.

“The enormous response reflects the health of the arts community in Maroondah and the interest generated by the changes about to take place in central Ringwood,” Cr Makin said.

“The Moving art installation aims to ensure these vacant shop fronts become eye-catching attractions while development work begins in the area,” Cr Makin said.

The $40,000 project, funded by the Department of Planning and Community Development and managed by Council, aims to improve the amenity of the area in the lead-up to major works in central Ringwood. Exhibition space in the shop windows has been provided by QIC.

Background on Ringwood Central Activities District

The State Government has committed $39 million to transform Ringwood into a CAD. Funding will go towards construction of a new town square on the station side of Maroondah Highway, improved safety and amenity works around the highway, a new bus interchange, and other works to foster investment opportunities.

“This will ensure the Maroondah community will soon enjoy a completely revitalised Ringwood town centre – one that offers a modern, attractive and pedestrian friendly community space,” Cr Makin said.

“The works will provide an upgraded Maroondah Highway and reinstate its role as Ringwood’s main street,” Cr Makin said.

“We will also see an upgrade to the public transport facilities, which will ensure the provision of a safe, high quality space for public transport users and other members of the community. At the same time it will make public transport a key focus for the Ringwood town centre,” Cr Makin said.

Ringwood has been classified as a CAD under the Melbourne 2030 Update: Melbourne @ 5 million. This policy update responds to higher-than-anticipated population growth and requires a change to the structure of metropolitan Melbourne from its reliance on one major centre towards multiple major centres to reduce congestion and maintain Melbourne’s liveability.