Murals at the RALC

Underwater themed mural at the RALC by staff

The Ryde Aquatic Leisure Centre (RALC) reopened with two new murals adorning its walls in July 2020, following its three-month closure to prevent the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

RALC's temporary closure became an opportunity for two staff—Children’s Party Host Erin Hackelton-Smith and Lifeguard Patrick Perlstone—to liven up the centre with colour and creativity.

Erin's brightly-coloured mural, featuring a mermaid and her sea creature friends, is a happy and playful artwork that appeals to younger children. She painted the mural to help children feel at ease when taking their first swimming lessons which can be daunting for some. The work was inspired her mother, a swimming teacher at the RALC who uses imagery during her lessons where possible.

Patrick, who has a background as a scenic artist for films, gilding and concept design, created an artwork that borrows from elements and colours found at the centre. Positioned near the entrance of RALC’s indoor stadium, his work spells out S-T-A-D-I-U-M using a range of imagery from soccer balls to shuttlecocks. Also embedded within the artwork are short messages related to the challenges brought about by the coronavirus pandemic. 

RALC Mural

Location

504 Victoria Rd, Ryde 2112  View Map

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