NGV protest wheel

A protest against the lack of acknowledgement to street art turned into a gesture of goodwill, after National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) moved the protesters’ giant artwork wheel inside.

The wheel is now on display in the gallery’s foyer.

NGV Director Tony Ellwood said the gallery was more than happy to hear the street artists’ concerns and help where possible.

“I am happy to meet with the protesters to discuss the issues they have raised and in the meantime the wheel is welcome to stay where it is as long as it doesn’t adversely affect the amenity of the gallery and the safety of our visitors,” Mr Ellwood said.

“The NGV respects the right of peaceful protest and we sympathise with the challenges facing street artists today.”

The protesters used the wheel as a petition and were trying to create awareness and support from the City of Melbourne and the State Government for street art and artists.