Lauren Murphy. The legend—A hard working woman in Gippsland.
Not only the reason why The MAST exists but the reason The MAST exists for everyone. For the people, for the ideas and for the common cause.
Why these people?
I’ve surrounded myself with people who have a ferocious passion. They see beyond what is routinely presented, like to discuss and question, and above all put their heart into whatever they do be it the creative arts, design or those around them. Each is unique.
They have listened to my ideas and enabled them, encouraged me when my confidence has shriveled, and celebrated each phase of excitement. They are with me on this journey.
Along the way, with single-Mum guilt driving me, I have managed most things by myself. Now it is time to work together. Through the creation of a place for people to meet, share ideas and projects, and spark action, I will show my children it is possible to change your life course, build dreams with hard work, and be true to yourself whilst still valuing others.
It’s always the amazing people in my life who refuel me to keep going, keeping alive my hope of giving back to others through my work.
What is my philosophy/journey?
As much as I say “the MAST isn’t about me, it’s for everyone else”, it does have a lot of me in it.
It’s me building a community, acknowledging we can’t always do things alone, that people can be independent introverts but still need connection, that a place where you feel secure releases self-expression, that being armed with resources will prompt creativity in new directions and dimensions. I want people to feel heard. I believe in assisting others to speak and providing a positive place for connecting those who have something to say.
The philosophy of leaving places better than you found them is at the heart of the hours I’ve spent improving this building since I removed the first blind in 2017.
I remember how nervous I was approaching the owner of the building to ask if I could have a room upstairs for my photography ‘studio’. I even did up a three-page proposal of my five year plan…which included turning it into a shared space.
I’ve cried in the middle of ripping up carpet and smashed holes in walls to get through to old fireplaces. I’ve danced with music up loud, and laughed, I’ve cherished sharing a wine with helpers, sawdust still covering their clothes. I’ve cradled every part of this journey in the hope I’m learning from it.
Such potential this building. Her generous lines, seductive nooks and inviting spaces have kindled my dream of a place for others to dream their dreams, for voices and activity and music to replace the echoes of former lives…
Each little step I’ve sensed the rooms coming to life. A sure sign of madness, I talk to her sometimes when I’m there alone. We’ve come to an understanding. I’ll look after her and she’ll look after me. As I said to her six years ago and I say to her now, “Let me be within your walls and I will breathe life into you.”
CHECK OUT LAUREN MURPHY PHOTOGRAPHY
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