30 years on and three local artists have returned to the region to work together to create an exhibition that will be on display at the Childers Art Space later this year.
Shelley Pisani, Julie Middleton and Fiona Dyer are reuniting to explore their creative journey and the impacts that key life events have had on their practice since they graduated from their fine arts degrees.
The ‘3 Cups Full’ Artist Residency involved the artists working out of Kepnock State High School’s art rooms for the Easter school holiday period in 2022.
Through the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF), Bundaberg Regional Council has been able to support the artists with funding, as well as providing a mentor in residence, local Jennifer McDuff.
Council’s Arts, Culture and Events portfolio spokesperson Cr John Learmonth said RADF allowed for the continuation of support for local artists
“RADF funding is provided to approved applicants to promote the role and value of the arts, culture and heritage in the community,” Cr Learmonth said.
“We believe that our residents and visitors should be able to enjoy the diversity of our arts and culture community and we are committed to providing access, equity and participation for everyone.”
Local artist Shelley Pisani said the opportunity to take up residency at Kepnock was greatly appreciated.
She said it provided an opportunity for the artists to work together in person, having spent the past eight months working through Zoom.
“We are truly grateful to the Bundaberg Regional Galleries team, Kepnock Art Department and funding bodies for investing in us and allowing us to create an exhibition that demonstrates that through careers, parenthood and life’s challenges, creativity can still remain at the core of your life,” Shelley said.
“Our exhibition “3 Cups Full” is about our journey and what keeps us inspired to continue our careers as artists.”
Working with Kepnock State High School, Shelley said she hoped the opportunity showcased the fantastic work that could be done through collaboration within the region.
“I am the only one remaining in Bundaberg and I thought us getting together in one space to collaborate in the lead up to the exhibition would be ideal,” she said.
“I contacted Kepnock State High School who jumped at the opportunity, and we are so grateful to be able to access their space and equipment.
“Kepnock is excited to explore the possibilities of hosting four professional artists in the space and what that potentially could do to demonstrate to our students what career paths there are from studies in fine arts.”
Each of the artists have different specialty areas to share with Julie’s recent work focusing on painting, mixed media and fresco techniques.
Fiona’s work primarily revolves around textiles and Shelley creates with mixed media, printmaking, ceramics and painting.
The exhibition will take place at the Childers Arts Space from November 2022 to January 2023.
The Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) is a partnership between the Queensland Government and Bundaberg Regional Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.
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