A new art installation in Mechanics Lane, in Castlemaine, was also inspired by love.

But Sydney-based artist Wendy Murray’s screen printed work comes at it from a different perspective.

Yes, Love is Hard Work is the name of the installation across from the Castlemaine Library and Phee Broadway Theatre.

Mount Alexander Shire Council cultural and development officer Vicki Anderson said Murray’s work was the latest in a series of paste-up works commissioned to enrich the shire’s civic spaces. 

“Wendy’s work considers the metal surface of the laneway’s hording and the razor wire along the fence line,” Ms Anderson said.

“The bright colours are designed to fade to monochrome over time.”

According to the artist, the artwork is a nod to print and poster history.

The work of Corita Kent, the creator of 33-year-old piece Love is Hard Work, inspired the project. 

According to the Corita Kent website, the artist boycotted the unveiling of a US postal stamp she was asked to design because it was unveiled on the Love Boat.

Corita reportedly did not believe the event reflected her intended message about love – a message she felt would have been more suited to an unveiling ceremony at the United Nations.

Love is Hard Work was born of the stamp design saga.

Other inspirations for Murray’s Yes, Love is Hard Work include the work of Mount Alexander artist Steve Parsons, whose artwork Wings enhanced the laneway earlier this year.

“The program will also feature works by students at Castlemaine Secondary College, and local artists Elissa Sadgrove and Jessie Stanley later this year,” Ms Anderson said. 

“Come and take a look, and let us know what you think.”

Yes, Love is Hard Work will be on display in Castlemaine until June 17.