Hawks Nest poet Stefan Apostol finds inspiration in unexpected places, from the world-renowned artist Banksy to a simple park bench.
Currently volunteering at a nursing home in Hawks Nest, Stefan’s diverse past includes composing music, performing in a rock band, recording at Abbey Road, publishing children’s books, and helping corporate clients manage stress.
This year, Stefan began writing poetry inspired by Banksy’s artwork. He shared his poems with the BANKSY Art Official Group on Facebook, including “The Red Balloon,” “Love’s Rose,” “Life Webs,” and “If Not Now Then When?”
“Love’s Rose” was inspired by a Banksy piece depicting a departed partner handing a rose to a living one, symbolizing the enduring power of love. “Life Webs” is a metaphor about two friends spinning “life webs” through mutual respect.
“The Red Balloon” references one of Banksy’s most famous images, featuring a young girl holding a red balloon, with the string forming the word “love.” Stefan described the piece as a reflection of personal peace, stating, “Peace is subjective, and anyone can find it in their own way.”
“If Not Now Then When” was inspired by Banksy’s artwork and uses spacing and wording to visually mirror the piece.
Stefan also drew inspiration from the story of the Mirreen Street footpath, which was featured in a previous article in News of the Area. The 15-year saga, marked by the persistence of community members, especially Dorothy Thompson, led Stefan to write the poem “Dorothy’s Bench.”
Stefan presented a laminated copy of the poem to Dorothy when they first met. She expressed her surprise and gratitude, saying, “I can’t believe that anyone thought to be inspired by what I’ve done here in Hawks Nest. I’m pleased I’ve done something useful here, I’ve loved living here.”
The poem reflects on the people who once sat on Dorothy’s bench, contemplating the beautiful surroundings and imagining their thoughts and the memories left behind.
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