ARTISTS of Wallamba, a group of creatives from Forster and surrounding areas whose work includes ceramics, fibre art, acrylics, oils, mixed media, sculpture and jewellery, are exhibiting at the Gloucester Gallery.
Mixed media artist Ariane Bell said, “We love the Gloucester Gallery.”
“Charlie Lethbridge, the gallery administrator, is great to work with and the space accommodates different styles of art.”
The group has been working together for nine years and meets every month for workshops or, as Ariane Bell explains, “sometimes just for a chat.”
“Liminal” contains the work of Ariane Bell, Carmel Spark, Di Smith, Jeri McElroy, Philippa Bird, Susie Oldfield and Vicki Mullins.
Each artist’s chosen media contributes to an eclectic collection that explores the exhibition’s theme, “Liminal”.
“While we may not know exactly what each artist will bring, our shared understanding of each other’s art gives us confidence that the art will work together.
“It’s always a wonderful moment to see how each piece fits into the overarching concept when it’s displayed together.”
Ceramicist Vicki Mullins, an interior and graphic designer, has recently moved from painting to the potter’s wheel, creating sculptural functional wares.
“It has been a steep learning curve. Vicki told News Of The Area.
“I’m enjoying working in 3D,” Vicki told News Of The Area.
Di Smith has been honing her skills in lino prints.
In this exhibition, her works explore hand-coloured lino prints.
Di, Vicki and Ariane all spoke about the supportiveness of the group.
“It is a safe space to experiment,” Vicki said.
“It’s also a welcoming group.
“When I moved to the area, the group was a great way to meet like-minded people.”
Ariane began her career as a special needs teacher, but 20 years ago she enrolled in a fine arts degree.
“Art helps me make sense of the world and assists me in processing the day-to-day of life.”
Works in the exhibition are textural, utilising tissue paper and paint.
Ariane adds, “I have also enjoyed sewing heavy paper,” a practice influenced by her quilter and seamstress mother.
The exhibition, “Liminal”, will be on display at the Gloucester Gallery until 22 February, during regular gallery hours.
By Wendy BUSWELL
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