Aruga Welcomes Inaugural Artist-In-Residence

Aruga has announced the appointment of Queensland independent artist Hues of Happy, the artistic practice of Elisha Oatley Escreet, as its inaugural Artist-in-Residence, marking a confident step in bringing visual art deeper into the agency’s creative practice. 

The new Artist-in-Residence program embeds a practicing artist within Aruga to spark cross-disciplinary collaboration and inject visual storytelling into marketing, placemaking and precinct-shaping campaigns.  

As part of the initiative, Aruga will expand its integrated services to include curated murals and site-specific artworks for clients seeking culturally resonant brand experiences. 

Gold Coast-based artist Hues of Happy will take on the first residency in 2026.  

Known for her vibrant feminist pop art, evocative street murals and a practice grounded in sustainability, Elisha’s work blends colour, satire and social commentary in a distinctly contemporary Australian voice. 

Aruga Co-Founder Adam Brunes said the residency formalises a creative partnership years in the making. 

“She understands the power of art to shift conversations and shape place, and we’re excited to see her vision infuse our campaigns, activations and client projects.” 

During the residency, Elisha will collaborate closely with Aruga Studio, the agency’s design team, and BonBon, its specialist activations and experience division, contributing original works, mural concepts and visual direction for client campaigns. 

Elisha said the residency felt like a natural next step in a creative partnership built on shared values.

“This residency gives me the opportunity to explore bigger ideas, connect with new audiences and contribute art that sparks joy, conversation and change.” 

The partnership launches with a bold interactive cosmic installation at Aruga’s South Brisbane headquarters titled Space Cats, featuring playful, expressive characters inspired by the agency’s mascot and the 20-strong creative team driving its work.  

Layered throughout the mural are 12 illustrated constellations, each containing a 3D-printed star embedded with NFC technology that invites team members and visitors to tap in and receive their daily horoscope.  

“The concept of the mural is built around the idea that Aruga’s people are both the dream and the dreamers,” Elisha said.  

“Space felt like the perfect metaphor. It represents a universe where anything is possible, while also creating an interactive artwork that invites you to pause, wonder and spark those very ideas.”  

Aruga Co-Founder Donna Kramer said the installation demonstrates how art can operate as both cultural expression and brand experience.  

“The debut mural celebrating this new partnership captures how we think, how we collaborate and our boundless nature of creativity.”