Ghostpatrol reveals his latest artwork piece at Pace of Ascot Vale

Every Melbourne postcode has its own story. As developers, we have a responsibility to create spaces that not only contribute to but also continue to tell a suburb’s story.

Every Melbourne postcode has its own story. As developers, we have a responsibility to create spaces that not only contribute to but also continue to tell a suburb’s story.


Our street art commission at Pace of Ascot Vale was no different. A careful selection process saw us review the works and stories of many local artists, and Melbourne’s David Booth (aka ghostpatrol)  stood out to us. His pieces have been exhibited in some of Australia’s most noteworthy galleries, and his talents span printmaking, drawing, street art and sculpture, among other multimedia experiments.


We recently sat down with Ghostpatrol to discuss the project and the meaning behind the piece.


What was your inspiration behind the piece?

I wanted to create something that would celebrate the local community surrounding Pace of Ascot Vale. The piece showcases a handful of bird species native to the City of Moonee Valley.

These birds, who often use the waterways as migration routes, can be found passing overhead, resting in treetops, gathering food on the undergrowth, or busily chirping from our backyard fences. This design uses these bird species to celebrate the breadth of beauty to be found in our city environments.


What is the meaning behind the chosen bird species?

Featuring a lorikeet, duck, and kookaburra, amongst others, the piece signifies a commitment to understanding and implementing measures that care for our local, natural environments.

Like these birds, we stand united together, looking forward to the future having learned, acknowledged, and progressed from the histories that came before us.

"“The piece showcases a handful of bird species native to the City of Moonee Valley, highlighting the breadth of beauty to be found in our city environments.”"

How long did it take you to complete the piece, and what techniques were used?

I completed the piece in one week. It’s the tallest artwork I have ever created, and it required the use of a swing stage to gain access at that height. Pace was exceptional in terms of ensuring my safety – hanging off the side of a building is not something you do every day.

Overall, Pace was a pleasure to work with, right from the initial design concepts through to the completion of the piece.

What were your project highlights?

I arrived on site in the early morning hours each day and the views of the sun rising over the city were nothing short of spectacular.

The community was also extremely welcoming and enthusiastic throughout the process. Locals would strike up a conversation with me and my team, take photos of us working and give us a thumbs up. It was nice to have that kind of positive interaction and encouragement.

What’s next for Ghostpatrol?

I have an exciting piece coming soon to the Melbourne Zoo, along with some upcoming projects in Japan once the borders open back up.

Collaborating with Pace again would be something I am definitely open to – watch this space.

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