A local community art group is making waves at this year’s Pakenham Show with a unique and environmentally conscious display.
Petal and Palette, a community art initiative started by Lara Canty in collaboration with Moy-Yan Neighbourhood House and Garfield Community Garden, is showcasing its first-ever entry at the Pakenham Show under the theme “Life in the Ocean.”
The group provides an inclusive space for people of all ages, including home schoolers and neurodiverse participants, to explore creativity in a relaxed and supportive environment.
Ms Canty said the aim of the group is to create a space for those who don’t necessarily fit into traditional sporting or social groups, giving them an opportunity to connect through art.
“We wanted a place where people can gather, share art, and encourage each other,” Canty said.
For their showpiece, Petal and Palette has constructed a life-sized whale from recycled cardboard and magazines.
The whale, mounted on wheels for mobility, will be suspended as part of the exhibition. Around it, children have crafted smaller fish and sea turtles from recycled newspaper, creating a vibrant underwater scene.
Canty explained the inspiration behind the project: “When I saw the underwater theme, I thought of the sea.
“We had all these recycled magazines, and we thought, why not make a whale? It’s been a true collaboration—mums and teens have helped with construction, and the kids have added their own sea creatures to decorate around it.”
The group hopes the display will spark awe and wonder among visitors and encourage them to rethink what can be created from everyday recycled materials.
“This is our first time exhibiting at the Pakenham Show, and we’re excited to share our work with the community,” Ms Canty said.
