Imagine driving along a highway that transforms into a visual and audio storybook of the Coorong. That is the idea behind Long Story Short, a cutting-edge arts initiative, which aims to tell the stories of unique Coorong characters through innovative roadside installations.
Led by Australian writer Mark Thomson, who has spent decades telling the stories of regional men through arts projects and books, the project aims to develop a visual narrative of men living in regional communities, including their daily life, challenges and hardships faced.
The project will encourage partnerships with local artists and residents and take a humorous and optimistic look at the life of men living in regional Australia.
By incorporating the voices and stories of Coorong locals, the project aims to translate original and diverse stories into artistic outcomes, including sculptures, signage, audio works and illumination art around Tailem Bend, Raukkan and the Mallee Highway.
When the project is complete, the broader audience that travel the highways will be able to hear and see the voices of the Coorong brought to life through art.
Partnering with the Coorong Suicide Prevention Network and focussing on regional and Indigenous men, two of the highest risk groups for mental health issues and suicide, the project will encourage resilience and fortitude through artistic interpretation.
The project is also designed to connect with travellers, with strategically placed artworks assisting with fatigue minimisation and encouraging engagement at designated rest stops.
Benefits for the Coorong community include:
Coorong Council thanks Country Arts SA for their generous support of the project with a $5,000 co-contribution grant and is currently seeking further funding opportunities.
Coorong District Council
95-101 Railway Terrace, Tailem Bend SA 5260
PO Box 399, Tailem Bend SA 5260
