Local arts group launch first show

A group of 12 local artists, with goals of working, learning and exhibiting together in and around the Peninsula, will launch its first show at Umina on August 5 and 6.

The Arts Alive exhibition will feature painting, drawing, ceramics, photography, hand-made pearl and gem jewellery, and sculpture.

Convenor Ms Sheelagh Noonan said: "Joining forces makes good sense for artists, for many reasons.

"Art can be an isolated business and it costs a lot to get your work out into the world as an individual," she said.

"Not having to pay gallery commission means we can price our work more competitively; new connections and collaborations can happen.

"With our longer term goals, such as hosting workshops and seminars, it is potentially providing a stimulating and rewarding environment for the whole community, not just ourselves."

The venue for the first Arts Alive exhibition will be the Umina Beach CWA Hall on the corner of Ocean Beach Rd and West Street.

The exhibition will feature works by Thelma Browne, Christine Burge, Carole Edwards, Rebecca Irving, Carol Langburne, Karen McPhee, Sheelagh Noonan, Chris O'Brien and Joanne Strauss.

The exhibition will be open on Friday, August 5, from 12pm.

The official launch will be held from 4pm to 6pm on the Friday evening with drinks and nibbles.

On Saturday, August 6, the exhibition will be open from 9am to 4pm.

For more information, ring Sheelagh Noonan on 0419 609 942.

Email, 20 Jul 2016

Joanne Strauss, Arts Alive