Joel Van Moore, aka Vans the Omega, is the curator of the Big Picture Fest. Now in it's 5th year, the festival leaves an incredible creative footprint on the city of Frankston. Celebrating this special milestone, we asked Joel some questions in the lead up to this year's event.
Celebrating 5 incredible years at Frankston, the festival’s come a long way in that time. What are you looking forward to most for this year’s Big Picture Fest?
This year feels like such an achievement with a critical mass of walls achieved, which has ongoing effect in the community. The goal personally was to inspire youth and the community as a whole and create a brighter outlook to anyone who visits Frankston.
It’s time to celebrate and move into the next chapter of the festival with AR and other technologies that enhance the experience even further.
How did your journey with the Big Picture Fest begin?
I had been part of Festivals all around the world and started out with Wonderwalls Port Adelaide, which I was working on back in 2013. I wanted to set a new standard with art festivals and start a new brand for Frankston in 2018. Now The Big Picture Fest has grown with more than 10 Festivals around Australia including curation for other major festivals. The next chapter incorporates the use of technology, lighting and other available means to build on the night economy and bring a number of skill sets into focus, allowing a wider input from locals.
Tell us about some of the artists that will feature for this year’s event?
We always strive to bring the very highest standard available in Australia and OS, while elevating all the local talents. Globally renowned artists will once again be painting Frankston with the addition of a German genius Bond who will create a spectacular AR work this year. I’m looking forward to local talent 23rd Key, Morano and others to bring their A game to the festival. Many of the artists speak for themselves with established careers for over 2 decades. Let me put it this way - no one will be disappointed with this year's offering.
For people who haven’t been to the Big Picture Fest before, what may surprise them about it?
The sheer volume and scale of artworks in the CBD. We have many of the top street artists/ graffiti writers from around the world with featured works all within walking distance of the central hubs.
With every turn you are likely to be confronted with a multi-story work of excellence.
What do you think street art ‘gives’ to a city?
Many, many things. We provide the story, memories and vibrancy to the street scape. Its uplifting to the city and that is obvious when you look back 5 years ago with only a limited amount of major walls painted.
You have the pretty cool creative balance of not only being a street artist yourself but also the curator of events like the Big Picture Festival. What do you love about working with other artists in this role?
I love to learn and absorb new meaning from the artists. Generally, I love being on the painting end, but increasingly love being a support network and facilitator in this space. I’ve been painting non-stop for over 30 years and it does take its toll in a physical sense, so for me I can still be a part of the bigger picture in many forms and leave a legacy of inspiration in Australia.
The line-up for this year is looking fantastic. Who are you looking forward to seeing create?
To be honest I am excited about every single artist on the roster. The diverse styles and backgrounds has got me amped.
What do you love about Frankston as a destination for the Big Picture Fest?
For years prior to pitching the Festival I have viewed Frankston as an incredible canvas with endless possibilities. There is so much to offer, so I wanted to sprinkle some extra magic on the surrounds and help bring colour to peoples lives daily.
The Big Picture Fest is taking place, March 14-20. If you want to discover more, including details on the artists, Friday night Block Party or FREE street art tours, head to https://www.discoverfrankston.com/events/the-big-picture-fest