Blackheath painter and electro, pop, punk artist Claire Nakazawa has transformed the corner of Wentworth and Govetts Leap Road, Blackheath with a painted mural that reflecting post-bushfire regrowth.
The mural is located on the Wentworth Street side of The Kenmare Buildings, which houses Day Gallery. It depicts charred trees with regrowth and strong colours in the background, showcasing Nakazawa's distinct style.
When COVID-19 first hit Australia and everyone was faced with the reality of its impact on work and social lives, Nakazawa found she could no longer tour with her band Haiku Hands so she returned to live in the Blue Mountains where she grew up.
Based in Blackheath, Nakazawa found herself surrounded by burnt regenerating bushland. This influenced her to paint the mural with strong, bold colours, combining abstraction and landscape in order to leave a lasting impression for Day Gallery, residents and visitors.
Gallery owner Helen Day said she was thrilled with the mural.
"For me, what Claire has chosen to paint on the side of our building is not only beautiful and colourful but also strikes a chord with what we have all been through with the bushfires and now seeing the after effects and regrowth."
Ms Day hopes that the mural will also bring some colour and joy to the town in difficult times
