The Altona Pier Revue Art Prize has inspired Hobsons Bay locals to share their passion for the area in more ways than one, as Seabrook resident, Veena Rathnam, celebrates her special video memoir.
“I came across these people in the community who had so much to do with the pier growing up, so I came up with the idea to record them talking about the pier,” she said.
As a cultural heritage specialist, Ms Rathnam was excited to try her hand at exploring Altona’s history in this project.
“I first heard about the art prize last year and decided this would be a good way to get my foot back in the door after having two kids,” she said.
Out of the many expressions of interest she received, Ms Rathnam decided on six people who she interviewed and recorded to compile into a 20-minute video memoir.
‘A Walk Down Altona Pier’ is a video memoir featuring locals who have grown up or lived in and around Altona, filmed at the Altona Meadows Library.
Made at the time of the pier’s renewal the memoir is a repository of personal stories and recollections, focusing around the historic Altona Pier.
After living in Hobsons Bay for almost eight years, Ms Rathnam has decided that her favourite part of Altona is no doubt the pier like many others.
“My favourite thing about the video is all the personal memories people shared as well as the history.”
The project was supported by Louis Joel Arts & Community, Mobil, Altona-Laverton Historical Society Inc and Hobsons Bay council.
The video is available for viewing at the Louis Joel Arts & Community Centre until the end of the exhibition on Wednesday, May 15.
It is also available to watch on Youtube.
Details: www.youtube.com/watch?v=lyoJblPjEyQ
Jennifer Pittorino
