Jika Jika Community Centre
Jika Jika
Community Centre Public Art Commsion
‘De-Fence Against Loneliness’
Defence Against Loneliness is a public art commission developed for Jika Jika Community Centre in Northcote, supported through community and public funding committed to strengthening shared civic space. Comprising a series of functional art elements, the project emerged through consultation, dialogue, and deep listening, exploring how public art can foster connection, inclusion, and belonging. The space continues to be actively used each day through Jika Jika’s ongoing programs, gatherings, food support initiatives, workshops, and community-led activities, reinforcing the importance of the “third place” within contemporary urban life.
Collaborating with Rosa to rethink the way in which our centre presents to the neighbourhood is like embarking on a great adventure. The role of art in public spaces is so important and Rosa’s community engagement process will ensure that our community’s stories, hopes and aspirations are reflected in the artwork that we create together.
A defining feature of Rosa Tato’s practice is her ability to create works that centre community consultation and engagement.
Rather than imposing a predetermined aesthetic or narrative, Rosa approaches each commission as a collaborative process, valuing the contributions of community voices and stakeholders. Her works become platforms for shared stories and collective reflection, fostering deeper connections between people and place.’
Susan Rennie
Manager Jika Jika Community Centre
Thrilled to have undertaken a site specific project with Jika Jika Community Centre. The Project was unveiled on Tuesday October 29th, 2024.
It is a local placemaking project which explicitly addresses loneliness, mental health, and social connection through the use of purposeful designed integrated site specific artwork.
This collaboration resulted in a successful application to the Victorian Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions. This project will lead to the removal of the old childcare fence that surrounds the premises and its replacement, a work of art will be constructed, enhancing and transforming various spaces in and around Jika Jika Community Centre.
‘De-Fence Against Loneliness’ consultation began in March 2023 with the Wurundjeri Woiwurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation.