Public art comes to life with youth-led Henry Street art tunnel makeover

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A unique public art project will soon breathe new life into the Henry Street tunnel in West Perth, thanks to a partnership between Perth County, Mitchell District high school, Youth Unlimited YFC Tricity, and the West Perth heritage and culture committee.  

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At its April 7 meeting, West Perth council approved a public street art policy and formally designated the Henry Street tunnel — located under the Henry Street bridge by the intersection of Henry and Pond streets — as a public street art area.  

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Currently adorned with a mix of appropriate and inappropriate graffiti and murals, the tunnel will undergo a creative transformation on Friday, June 13. Originally envisioned as a single mural, organizers have shifted their approach: student artists will paint a unified background over inappropriate markings, while preserving and thoughtfully integrating existing appropriate artwork. 

As part of this revitalization, students from Mitchell District high school will create art inspired by the theme “My West Perth” — a personal and community-focused expression of what West Perth means to them. Their designs will reflect local identity, belonging and shared values, symbolizing their connection to the area.  

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Throughout the day, students will engage in hands-on learning under the guidance of a professional artist, Roy Verbeek, from Paint with Purpose. They will explore mural techniques, including how to incorporate existing art into their new pieces or respectfully paint over it with fresh, meaningful designs.  

From 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on June 13, the public is invited to visit the tunnel, take part in the event, and witness the evolving artwork. 

This inclusive celebration of youth creativity and community spirit encourages public engagement and support.  

The initiative is part of a broader effort by Perth County to promote arts and culture, and to empower young people to shape their communities through collaborative, creative projects.

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