Chitchat Meets the Artist Behind Bundy’s Latest Masterpiece
When Chitchat Newspaper spotted local artist Chantel’s latest mural at the Fiveways Foodworks, we were instantly inspired—and knew we had to reach out for an interview. The vibrant work is just one example of how Chantel is bringing colour and creativity to Bundaberg’s streets and spaces.
Her journey to mural art, however, was anything but direct. Growing up in Gin Gin, Chantel always had a creative streak, spending hours as a child absorbed in drawing and painting. After moving to Geelong at 19 to study graphic design, she landed her first paid creative job, but quickly realised office-based work wasn’t the right fit. “I wanted something more hands-on that I could build for myself,” she said.
That realisation led her to take a break from the creative world altogether, spending three years travelling in Canada. When she returned to Bundaberg, she was ready to dive back in—though she didn’t yet know murals were in her future.
Her first large-scale work came in November 2023 at Alowishus café in Bundaberg, an experience she describes as holding “a special place in my heart.” 2024 was a slow but steady year of setting up her business and building confidence.
By March 2025, she was painting murals full-time, with projects ranging from shopfronts and private sheds to trips further afield.
“I’ve always loved being active and hands-on,” Chantel said. “Murals let me combine that physical side with creativity. They keep me mentally stimulated—not just through the art itself, but also running a business and connecting with people.”
Nature remains one of her biggest sources of inspiration, whether it’s the sway of trees, the rhythm of ocean waves, or simply a walk outside. She also draws ideas from artists whose work has a strong composition and cohesive style.
In between murals, Chantel takes on some signwriting and the occasional graphic design project, though her priority remains building a portfolio of large-scale art. Upcoming projects include work with local Bundaberg businesses, two large private sheds, and a trip to Hervey Bay for “some epic designs.”
Looking back, she has one piece of advice she’d give her younger self: “The more you put into something you enjoy, the more the rest will naturally fall into place.”
Find her here: www.chantelartdesign.com
Chitchat Newspaper. September 2025.