A splash of colour has been added to Willow Street after seven artists painted seven rubbish bins.

The project was led by Creative Tauranga's Gallery Curator Millie Newitt, in conjunction with Tauranga City Council and Downtown Tauranga.

Tara Fowler putting her creative touch on one of the Willow Street bins. Photos: Dane Scott.

'The idea stemmed from discussions between myself and fellow artist Tara Fowler, on how to liven up Willow Street,” says Millie.

'A big thank you to all the artists, their work is incredible, all so varied and vibrant. The designs tie into the ‘nature' theme we started with. Thanks to Resene Colour Shop for supplying the paint for the project,' continued Millie.

The artists involved were Tayla Joy, Ali Thompson, Millie Newitt, Jamie Harkins, Viv Quinn and her two daughters Sapphire and Skye, and Tara Fowler.

'When we started the Willow St Project it was about creating simple, light, creative concepts that would added interest and vibrancy to the street, creating moments of enjoyment for all,” says Mainstreet Tauranga spokesperson Sally Cooke.

'The beautiful artwork completed at the weekend captures this perfectly and is another vital component of this place-making project. It's fantastic to see it on the street.”

'It would be amazing if the project could be extended to more bins around the city centre,” says Millie.

It was a busy end to the week for Creative Tauranga, with Art in the Arcade on Friday held with Tauranga Youth Development team. There was music, live painting and a free BBQ on offer.