After completing the Port Melbourne Migration Mural, a large-scale public art project created by professional mural artist Dan and the 90 Degrees Art team, we caught up with Mike Stephens, Port Melbourne Business Association President, to ask him what he thought about the mural and working with us. He was entirely complementary, which is awesome. Thanks so much Mike! We are really proud of the completed mural and appreciate your kind words!

See more photos and details of the Port Melbourne Migration Mural

What motivated the Port Melbourne Business Association to support the Migration Trail artwork?

The Migration Trail artwork reflects the history and cultural diversity that shaped Port Melbourne. Many migrants first arrived through Station Pier, making Port Melbourne a gateway to new lives and opportunities. By sponsoring this community mural with integrated augmented reality, we wanted to honour those stories, celebrate our community’s rich heritage, and create a visually engaging landmark artwork that strengthens local pride and identity.

What impact has the mural had on the local community, visitors, or businesses in the area so far?

The mural has already become a point of conversation and pride within the community. The amazing portraits and vibrant colours have been triggering questions and conversation about the installation from both locals and visitors to Port Melbourne. Locals see their own family histories reflected in the artwork, while visitors are drawn to stop and take photos.

We are yet to launch the augmented reality component of the installation and feel this will really bring the mural to life, literally. For nearby businesses, we expect this professional mural installation to increase foot traffic, with people exploring the precinct more thoroughly. Overall, it contributes to a stronger sense of belonging and vibrancy in Port Melbourne — showing how a mural for business precincts can help improve engagement and visibility.

How do you feel the mural reflects or strengthens Port Melbourne’s identity and heritage?

The mural captures Port Melbourne’s unique role as a landing place for so many migrants, giving visual form to the community’s shared history. It highlights resilience, diversity, and hope—qualities that still define the area today. By placing those narratives on a large public wall, the artwork makes heritage visible and accessible to everyone, strengthening the identity of Port Melbourne as a place of welcome and cultural richness.

Being able to see these stories come to life — from their lifelike portraits, to a fully immersive augmented reality experience — will help to keep the historical stories about Station Pier and Port Melbourne alive. This kind of heritage mural demonstrates how storytelling through murals can make history part of everyday life.

What was it like working with Dan and the 90 Degrees Art team on this project?

Every artist who tendered showed incredible skill, but 90 Degrees stood out for their ability to tell stories through their work. Their style brings history and heritage to life in a way that resonates deeply with the community, which is exactly what we hoped for with this mural. 

Working with Dan and the 90 Degrees Art team was an inspiring and smooth experience. They listened carefully to the community’s stories and translated them into an artwork that is both visually striking and deeply meaningful. Their professionalism, artistic vision, and ability to collaborate with multiple stakeholders made the project enjoyable and rewarding. We felt confident throughout that the final piece would be something the whole community could take pride in, and we were not wrong.

Thinking about a mural project?

90 Degrees Art specialises in professional mural painting services for businesses, councils, and community groups. Whether you’re planning a public art tender, want a commercial mural to attract customers, or hope to create a community artwork that tells a story, our team can bring your vision to life.

Get in touch to discuss a mural project or public artwork