Proud: David Moore and Judy Lorraine stand atop Benalla's Ceramic Mural.
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Benalla’s David Moore, who was instrumental in developing the town’s much-loved Ceramic Mural, penned this memorial to Judy Lorraine.
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In 1985, an Australia-wide advertisement seeking an Artist to guide the Benalla Ceramic Mural Project saw many noted potters and ceramicists express interest.
After interviewing a shortlist of applicants, Wedderburn-based potter and architect Judy Lorraine was selected as the outstanding candidate.
Judy was appointed as ‘Artist in Residence’ for the proposed Benalla Ceramic Mural, with Australia Council funding, and served in that capacity for three years.
Those three years saw the expansion of the underlying design concepts that informed the Mural’s ongoing development and completion.
Judy took the wish list developed by the community and created the now highly regarded design – two concentric circles, one representing the Greco-Roman amphitheatre, the other revealing the eastern Yin Yang symbology.
It was a graphic representation of Australia’s successful melding of cultures from around the world.
Judy spoke about her process in the book Benalla Ceramic Mural, a short history, by Joan Jensen and David W Moore.
Under construction: Judy Lorraine and Pat Gardener with newly created parts of the Ceramic Mural which stands today on the banks of Lake Benalla.
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“In the development of the plan in which people were the main ingredient, it seemed to me that to engage as many of the senses of the people as possible would be an admirable goal,” she said.
“The senses of sight, hearing, touching, feeling, and the perception of space, enclosure, secrecy, and the wide expansive views.”
Judy remained artistic director for the life of the project, some twenty - seven years.
During that time, she worked with visiting artists, potters and the many Benalla people who created an element for inclusion.
Judy’s talents extended beyond her creative skills. She had exceptional people skills and was able to work creatively with everyone.
She is fondly remembered by many people in Benalla.
For me, Judy was an admired and treasured mentor.
For the many years the Mural struggled towards completion, Judy remained a steady and reliable source of advice and support.
Hardly a day passed when we were not in contact by telephone.
Her regular visits were warmly welcomed by all who worked on the Mural.
She will be missed by everyone who knew her and has left Benalla with a remarkable legacy.
Judy is survived by daughters Anne and Sue.
A memorial service will be held at WAS Gallery Warragul in November, featuring works by Judy and Harold Hughan.
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