A NEW mural at Chiltern is putting biodiversity on the map.
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Chiltern artist Kirrily Anderson recently completed Reverance, which raises awareness for the critically-endangered regent honeyeater and other threatened species that live in the Chiltern Box-Ironbark National Park.
The 12 metres by 9 metres mural at Chiltern Recreation Reserve was commissioned by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP).
Anderson and her team worked on the project for 25 days, with many curious onlookers pulling in for a better look.
"The mural depicts a wide variety of species, ranging from the well-known and loved regent honeyeater, a barking owl, the rare and delicate spider orchid and the majestic Ironbark, which provide essential food and shelter for these species," she said.
"For me, as an artist, it was a great opportunity to be able to tell a bit of the story about endangered and threatened species in the park through my artwork.
"The artwork invites all visitors to connect with the Box-Ironbark environment, explore the surrounding park and search for the 27 plants and animals depicted in the mural."
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The artwork is funded through DELWP's Biodiversity On-Ground Action Icon Species Grants program, which highlights, protects and conserves Victoria's threatened species.
DELWP natural environment programs officer Elizabeth Wemyss said it was exciting to be involved in the project to highlight native flora and fauna.
"The Box-Ironbark Forest surrounding Chiltern is home to many of the state's and Australia's most endangered plants and animals," she said.
"The aim of the mural is to show people what is in their area, and to encourage them to stroll along some incredible trails, take in the views and seek out some of the rare and beautiful plants and animals."
Anderson said small towns had started to embrace community art.
"The silo trail has helped inspire communities to use artwork to tell a story," Anderson said.
- JODIE BRUTON