Wow. Look at the vibrant colours. This is the Kelly & her Gang Mural. It’s a captivating piece of art isn’t it? Painted in 1993 it’s a local treasure. Young people from the Glebe Youth Centre created it. Some were Indigenous. Another claimed to be a descendant of Ned Kelly.
The mural is on the side wall of what used to be the Valhalla Cinema. That’s along Glebe Point Road in Glebe. The title is clever. It’s a nod to the Australian film Ned Kelly and His Gang. Released in 1906 it’s thought to be the world’s first narrative movie. It tells the story of the famous bushranger Ned Kelly and his gang.
But this mural’s Kelly isn’t the historical Ned Kelly. This Kelly and her gang are local identities. They’re colourful friends from the inner city. The mural depicts a fun time among friends. It shows a sense of community. It’s a snapshot of life in Glebe.
The mural was repainted in 2008. Kelly Jaffer a friend of many in the Glebe community repainted it. Although the mural changed the community artwork’s integrity was kept. The original design’s facilitator believes this. The concept for the mural emerged from a special camp. The initial design came from the young people’s experiences and their connections.
The mural’s story is a heartwarming one. It reflects the spirit of Glebe. It showcases the power of art. It highlights the importance of community bonds. The mural is more than just paint on a wall. It’s a time capsule. It tells the story of a group of young people. It reflects their hopes and dreams. It celebrates friendship and creativity.
It’s a story of the past. But the mural remains relevant today. It acts as a reminder of the importance of community art. It shows the enduring power of artistic expression. It reminds us to celebrate our local heroes. It’s a vibrant celebration of life in Glebe. So take a moment to appreciate the Kelly & her Gang Mural. It’s a testament to community spirit. It’s a fantastic piece of art and an important part of Sydney’s history.