Newhaven College has a new mural that pays tribute to Phillip Island’s bird life.

In July, the college welcomed Melbourne street artist Lukas Kasper, after reintroducing its artist in residence program.

Lukas was commissioned to brighten up a blank wall in the senior school with the mural, and also worked with year 9 students to create a garden installation. 

The artist was inspired by the wildlife found on the college grounds. 

“When I came to Newhaven College, I was immediately inspired by the critters running around the school,” he said. 

“The mural was driven by that inspiration and I tried to incorporate my own artistic expression, capturing the essence of the animals.”

The colour palette for Lukas’ work – subtle blues, greys and browns – had a more natural hue than those usually used by Lukas, but capture the birds in their environment.

Lukas ventilated the space by opening all the doors to the building while he was painting alone over a weekend, and was visited by a magpie and a couple of sparrows, which he had to herd out.

Principal Tony Corr said Lukas’ artwork had transformed the senior school building.

“The college feels privileged to house this stunning artwork for future generations of senior students to enjoy,” he said.