The Hop Queen mural was a self-initiated and financed collaborative project between local artist Travis Price and Mass Motion.

Much of Price’s focus with work had been outside of Ballarat for some time and he wanted to create something that would resonate with local residents. The byline, The past is History, was a tongue in cheek acknowledgment of Ballarat’s well-documented history but also a call to action to move on to create their own identity/future.

With over 20 years of experience working as a creative, Travis Price has built a reputation as a leader in the commercial illustration industry. A product of the University of Ballarat, Price has worked for some of the most innovative advertising agencies, bands and clothing brands.

Respected internationally for his evolution and experimentation in vector illustration Price has presented at numerous design conferences and universities regarding his work including the National Gallery of Victoria.

Price continues to work on a variety of commercial and apparel projects from his home studio in Ballarat surrounded by his growing family.

The Hop Queen mural was painted over three days in April 2016 with the help of fellow local artists Merda and Cax One.