Being bold for Bowery

Cr Anh Pham and Cr Sam David with bold Festival mascots

By Tate Papworth

It’s time for St Albans to be bold.

Brimbank icon Leigh Bowery is remembered, in part, for his bold, creative and artistic zest for life and a new festival is set to honour that memory next month.

The Be Bold Festival will open on Friday, October 11 and run until Saturday, October 19.

It will feature 15 art and fashion exhibitions and events which will bring professional artists together with community members of all ages.

Mayor Lucinda Congreve said there’s something for everyone.

“We have a really full program with plenty to see and do over the course of the eight day festival.

“Take your pick from community-led fashion shows, interactive art-making sessions, installations, talks, exhibitions, workshops and live music – all available at no charge.”

If you’re lucky, you might spot a mascot roaming the streets.

“The Be Bold festival promotions are starting this week with Leigh Bowery-inspired roving performers offering a visual feast of costumes and ‘onesies’ – taking it to the streets in Sunshine and St Albans,” Cr Congreve said.

Leigh Bowery was born in Sunshine in 1961 and raised locally.

He is considered one of the most influential arts figures in London and New York during the ’80s and ’90s.

The festival will be held at the St Albans theatre named after him.

Details: www.bowerystacc.com.au