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JUNE 2016

E D I T I O N

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E D I T I O N

G R E A T E R

P O R T

ADAM MURRAY.

Adam Murray is one of our region’s most dexterous and well known artists; his technique is ever changing, rich with charisma and will leave you wondering … this month in Focus we profiled Adam as part of our Arts and Culture feature …

CLOTH FABRIC.

Julie Paterson is an artist and textile designer, whose company, ClothFabric, has been the source of stunning fabrics for the home décor industry now for over 20 years. Julie is holding an exhibition of her work at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery, and is also giving locals a chance to try one of her fabric printing workshops!

REBECCA HUNTER.

Rebecca Hunter joined the Asian Aid team in 2012 and has utilised her background in teaching to assist schools overseas in countries such as India and Nepal. Rebecca can often be found travelling two days to reach a village school in the tea plantations of Northern India, colouring in with children at a preschool in the centre of an urban slum in Mumbai, or travelling on some incredibly sketchy mountain roads in Nepal.

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JACKSON JAMES.

You may have seen Jackson setting the scene at weddings and local venues with his music. Focus caught up with Jackson as part of our Arts and Culture feature, which highlights some of our region’s best creatives ...

IT’S ABOUT TIME ANTIQUES.

Germaine Cartwright and partner Rosie have loved antiques and collectables since they were teenagers ... And that is quite a long time! Theyboth love history, architecture and antiquities from all eras, so it was a natural progression for them to collect and conserve wonderful pieces of history. Their passion for all things old and beautiful includes vintage cars, motorcycles and anything else with a motor, propeller or wings!

TOM MCILVEEN.

Local poet Tom McIlveen has received many awards over the past six years, and he’s topped all of his achievements off by winning the Australian Championships last year for best written poem ... Followed closely by winning the Golden Damper performance award in Tamworth this year. Tom tells us more about the inspiration behind his literary creations …

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BANANA FIELD.

BALD ARCHY.

Sam Phillips and Matt wise have worked as rival promoters in the local music industry for several years. Recently joining forces, they have announced plans to organise a new festival, Banana Field Music and arts festival. Focus caught up with the dastardly duo to find out what punters can look forward to.

“It’s just a big joke – a bit of fun,” said the exhibition’s creative director, Peter Batey OAM, about the competition he founded in 1994, as part of the Festival of Fun ...

CHRISTINA MONNERON.

ANNE REILLY.

Christina Monneron is a passionate performer and dancer who uses her talents to help people recover from trauma and despair. Focus went along to a recent class to see if we could learn to salsa and find out more about this vivacious lady.

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KELLY LOVE.

Armidale born and bred Kelly Love was always creative from a young age. After a move to Japan working with a clothing designer, Kelly returned to Sydney to study Fashion Design and now has her own label and is living her dream in London.

BEYOND EMPATHY.

Community arts organisation Beyond Empathy is bringing “mavens” to Armidale to work with some of the region’s local Aboriginal artists.

E N G L A N D

Anne Reilly’s pottery is unique and intriguing. Focus sat down for a cup of herbal tea to try and learn more about the inspiration behind her creations.

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THE NEW ENGLAND ART SOCIETY.

The New England Art Society has been with us for almost 25 years, so we visited the Armidale Art Gallery and spoke to Society President, Malcolm McClintock.

THE ASH HALL TRIO.

If you’re from the New England, you probably know one of these likely suspects, Tony, Ash and Steve from the ASH HALL TRIO. FOCUS delves into the minds of these creative geniuses to find out what makes them tick, tock, rock and/or roll. We talk with Ash about all that is the glorious melting pot of sounds The Ash Hall Trio …

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ADAM MURRAY IS ONE OF OUR REGION’S MOST DEXTEROUS AND WELL KNOWN ARTISTS; HIS TECHNIQUE IS EVER CHANGING, RICH WITH CHARISMA AND WILL LEAVE YOU WONDERING … THIS MONTH IN FOCUS WE PROFILED ADAM AS PART OF OUR ARTS AND CULTURE FEATURE …

and the cat seems to suit these things. The movement ou’re no stranger to our local creative scene, having featured of their spine and the direction of their legs can be in one way or another at most pushed in unrealistic directions. And it’s always fun to events held. What do you love add breasts and hips and other things. They just sort most about our region’s growing of combined and worked, and I’m sticking with it … creative community? For now. It’s great - from the local council to the Glasshouse, Your staple colour palette has also certainly local artists and smaller galleries. This town is changed in a year - brighter hues in the becoming even more colourful - starting to see more foreground with dark features and undertones, street art around, as well as the local art events of the which creates a very moody feel. What has last few years. There’s a tight arts community here in inspired this? Port Macquarie, and we’re all helping each For years I normally used primary colours, other. It’s special. a very bright palette, mostly favouring What are some of the events blue/orange and red/green. And like t you’ve been involved with? most things with creative practice, Honestly, I don’ There was Squiggle Off last know how my things have to change, move me, year; that was so much fun. su bjects come to est on and evolve. And I guess my bigg The Art Walk last month, a and I’m not the recent move to a darker palette I gu ess huge success for local art and fan of cats . But e th and darker tones is a reaction of n io ct it’s a refle artists. I’ve done live painting e I’v ch hi w , to my past colours. There was rm fo female at the Pier on Clarence, the r fo on ng ki or a point where I looked back at w been Artist Markets, Festival of the my work and thought my colours years now.” Sun and Sounds on Sunset Music had to change/shift. Subject and Festivals. Recently Mel Casey and imagery was progressive, but they I just finished painting a wall outside were all the same colours. I’m lucky to Arthouse Industries (cnr Murray St and receive left over house paint from friends. It’s Sunset Parade), for cancer fundraiser “If We All these unfamiliar colours that have made it more Had Wings”. interesting for me. It was only 12 months ago when we last Painting for me is a constant testing and discovery caught up with you about your art. Since then process. I truly believe contrast is a very important you’ve moved from women, to felines with part of visual art - contrast of colour and application womanly features, and now a lot of your work and even contrast of extension. Like a mass of revolves around the felines solely … Tell us about

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that transition. Honestly, I don’t know how my subjects come to me, and I’m not the biggest fan of cats. But I guess it’s a reflection of the female form, which I’ve been working on for years now. It’s the cat’s body and how they move that I find interesting and also fun to experiment with. They’re slinky, smooth, bony and creepy. I like to stretch, exaggerate and distort form, 40 greater portEdition macquarie focus. 4 focus Special

darker tones with a little touch of brighter colour, it’s complementary opposite here and there, where older work was the opposite and the darkness suits my cats. Where can our readers follow your artwork and contact you? You can find me on Instagram @adammurrayart and Facebook www.fb.com/adammurrayart. Thanks Adam.

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J A M E S YOU MAY HAVE SEEN JACKSON SETTING THE SCENE AT WEDDINGS AND LOCAL VENUES WITH HIS MUSIC. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH JACKSON AS PART OF OUR ARTS AND CULTURE FEATURE, WHICH HIGHLIGHTS SOME OF OUR REGION’S BEST CREATIVES ...

ou’ve been a prominent face on the local music scene for many years now. How do you feel the scene has progressed, and how has your style developed over

this time? Live music and the level of talent in Port is ridiculous, from the music programmes in our schools, the tutors and the amount of live music venues to play now; it has never been better. The internet and quantity of quality lessons available online is, without a doubt, a key component in the success of many young musicians. My own experience with rapid learning is encouraging, and it helped me become more versatile as a musician, being able to sit in and play almost any genre. Over the years, my own style has naturally developed as a result of learning, listening and playing with great like-minded musicians. Some would say quitting your career in architecture to follow your dreams in music is crazy. What was it that inspired you to make such a life changing decision? This was probably the hardest decision I’ve ever made; however, it was also the best decision I ever made! People told me I was crazy; why would you give up a great career and security to play your guitar? You love architecture! Yes, I am lucky to love my backup plan, but I love playing music more. Like any job, I’ve studied and learnt the skills needed, but I’ve also done the same with music; it was just a leap of faith I had to take, and some encouragement from people who believed I

could do it. To make a living doing what you love - that’s the dream. The guitar pictured above isn’t just any old guitar; how did you learn the skills to create this beautiful instrument? This all started one day when I saw a unique colour on an early ‘50s guitar. I did a bit of research; however, I found the only one available, I didn’t like. So, I decided I would build my own. I’ve been playing guitars for a long time and do most of the setup and maintenance work on them myself. After pulling them apart enough times, I was confident I could put one together. I spent the next three months scouring eBay for original Fender USA parts, as I’d decided to build a 1952 Telecaster. All was smooth sailing, I had the body painted, picked the neck; however, it was almost impossible to find the original screws to hold it together. After all the waiting and time spent anticipating how it would play, I couldn’t be happier - it’s perfect, and something I’ll keep forever. Have you been working on any new projects? I’m in the process of building my own home recording studio and getting together some equipment needed to record quality material. I really wanted a space that feels great when you walk in - peaceful and inspiring. I’m really looking forward to seeing this project completed and the music that will come from it. This year I’ve also teamed up with long time friend and well know local musician Bernard Smith. Bernard shares a similar passion for the genres I love and has a like-minded feel; this

People told me

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makes creating music has always been from I was crazy! ve gi u together as easy as personal experiences; Why would yo er re ca breathing. Live music using imagery and some up a great play in Port has never been clever techniques, I try and security to u your guitar? Yo better, and we often to paint a vivid picture e!” love architect ur discuss what we can and encourage the do better and how to listener to get lost in the give people something music. different. Jazz is a genre we What are your plans for the both love, but traditional jazz is next twelve months? not for everyone - especially the younger Building a lasting career in the creative generations. For a long time DJs have industries has always been a timely process. owned the music scene, with hopping So for the next twelve months, I aim to keep house beats and simple chord progressions pushing myself, musically and creatively, this is now what we’re used to. We’re thinking, incorporating video and recording artistry to perhaps we could recreate this live using real continue growing and rapidly moving forward. instruments - Hip Hop electronic beats with a Pre-production for my EP is underway, and Jazz groove! I’m looking at releasing it later this year 2016. Who or what influences you when it comes You never stop learning and evolving, and it’s to writing lyrics and composing? exciting knowing I’m finally working towards a Everyone is different when it comes to passion with nothing holding me back. creating and honestly, it usually comes and goes Direct us to where we can go to listen to quicker than the tide. One thing I have learnt your music and follow your journey… over the years is what doesn’t work and for me, You can find me playing live, solo, or with stress instantly dulls my creativity. This is partly other great local musicians at many live music why I had to push aside other work, so I can venues around Port - I’m regularly seen at remain in a creative state. I grew up listening venues such as The Beach House, Town Green to great guitar players such as Robert Cray, Inn and Salty’s Bar + Grill. Eric Clapton, SRV, BB King, John Mayer and Alternatively, you can reach me via my many similar, and even today they are still huge website, or follow me on social media, where influences. all shows and content are available. Recently I’ve taken a liking to country music, Thanks Jackson. inspired by artists like Dierks Bentley, Keith www.jacksonjames.com.au Urban and the TV show Nashville; the stories www.facebook.com/jacksonjamesmusic @ in the songs are captivating and honest, and jackson_james__ that’s what I aim for in my music. Writing lyrics jacksonjamesmusic@gmail.com greater port macquarie focus Specialfocus. Edition 41 5

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Cloth

i Julie. You create designs on cloth; why choose this particular medium? I trained as a textile designer in the U.K. Back in the ’70s, Margaret Thatcher said, “Don’t be an artist; get a real job”. So, I took her at word … I thought I couldn’t be an artist, because I wouldn’t make a living from it, so I have seen myself for a long time as a designer first and an artist second. This is changing now - I’ve seen it more as the other way around for the past few years. When I first came to Australia, I was quite surprised that designers often called themselves artists. Back in the U.K., you were one or the other … So I had a very pragmatic head space around this. I wanted to be an artist, so I wondered what design practice I could train in that would be the closest to being an artist, and thought that was textile design. I had initially considered graphic design, but this is not as free - it’s generally answering someone else’s brief; whereas, with textile design, I could see the potential to develop my own briefs and projects. And the business you’ve established in Australia, ClothFabric, has now been going for over 20 years? It first started in 1995. My then business partner and I had a freelance design business, and we were going really well - designing for companies like Sheridan, who’d commission designs from us. These designs had quite a European flavour and were somewhat generic … Not a lot of our individual personality in them. After a few years we grew a little bored with this, so we decided to explore creating our own brand, which is when “Cloth” started. It was just 42 greater port Edition macquarie focus. 6 focus Special

JULIE PATERSON IS AN ARTIST AND TEXTILE DESIGNER, WHOSE COMPANY, CLOTHFABRIC, HAS BEEN THE SOURCE OF STUNNING FABRICS FOR THE HOME DÉCOR INDUSTRY NOW FOR OVER 20 YEARS. JULIE IS HOLDING AN EXHIBITION OF HER WORK AT THE GLASSHOUSE REGIONAL GALLERY, AND IS ALSO GIVING LOCALS A CHANCE TO TRY ONE OF HER FABRIC PRINTING WORKSHOPS! an idea, and I think we both thought it would only last about six months - we didn’t want to drop our “day job” for what we thought was just a whim of an idea, but it ended up being the right time to do this - and the business has now been going strong for 21 years! It’s quite amazing! How has your business evolved over time? A significant change has happened over the last two years. But, the principles we set in place at the very beginning, such as everything needing to be screen printed by hand in Australia on natural fabric and focusing on the Australian environment as our inspiration are still very strong, and still very much in place. I wrote my book ClothBound nearly two years ago now, and once I’d finished writing, literally after the last chapter was done, I realised I wanted to run the business differently. I was actually prepared to close the doors of Cloth and move on, but after a bit of deliberation and discussion with people in the industry, I realised there could be a less dramatic option … So now, I have another company, Ascraft, running the business for me in the city; they took over my stock, carried on with the production in the same way, with the same printer as I’d done, and I now live in the mountains, having created a new way of running the business and living my life. It was exhausting running a small business with six staff to coordinate, doing the marketing, designing and shopkeeping. I’d kind of run out of steam and importantly, I’d lost my energy for creating new work. After 20 years, combining all those roles was taking its toll. But it’s quite an exciting new phase I’m going through now! Your exhibition Cloth: From Seeds to Bloom,

is rather different to what we’d normally see at a gallery. Tell us more … The exhibition is based on the layout of my book, ClothBound. Each chapter of this book contains my key designs and the inspirations behind them … It’s really important for me to tell the story behind my work, because each story is unique and that is important to tell. The eight chapters have been turned into nine groups - vignettes really, that use key design elements from the collections I’ve designed over the past 20 years. You’ll walk through the different groups and see curtains, upholstered furniture, lamps and rugs all set out like mini interiors. The show basically encapsulates my vision for my company and highlights how it has matured over time, yet essentially stayed true to its essence. The first group is called Seeds from 1995, and the ninth is called Bloom from 2015 - the final vignette representing the visual embodiment of my new direction. The book was written before Bloom came about, so this exhibition represents my future direction, as well as what’s happened in the past. You’ll also be presenting an artist talk and fabric printing workshop. You call your workshops “imperfect workshops”. Why is this? A few years ago, I was mulling over the concept of life in general and what it means to us over a glass of wine on a lazy Sunday afternoon, and we found ourselves writing a kind of manifesto. We called it the “imperfect manifesto”, because I get great joy out of working, and living, in a way that allows mistakes to happen and appreciating the idea of imperfection. Many people I come across in my daily work get very caught

up in the idea of being perfect, and this is very restrictive. There’s a very self-critical aspect to this, and it often stops people doing what they want to do. There’s a very strong yearning out there for people to be creative, but a lot of people hold themselves back because they fear they won’t be good enough. My workshops are a result of having the had the business for so many years, understanding my own processes, allowing the mistakes to happen and developing the idea of self compassion. Being kind to ourselves makes a huge difference to the quality of our lives. What I love to do is engage and encourage people to be open brave and creative … Beginners or advanced, people can get involved and learn about what I do, make their own mistakes, create things they never thought they would and have fun along the way. Look Draw Print gives everyone the chance to play at being a textile designer for a day! Thanks Julie. Interview by Jo Atkins. www.juliepaterson.com.au or www.clothfabric.com for more info.

the plug! Cloth: From Seeds to Bloom; Glasshouse Regional Gallery from 13th May - 10th July. Artist Talk with Julie Paterson: Thursday 2nd June; 5:30pm. $15 adult; $12 Member. Fabric Printing Workshop - Look Draw Print: Saturday 4th June; 10am - 3pm. $80 adult; $70 member. www.glasshouse.org.au

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B E I N S P I R E D & G E T C R E AT I V E @

G L A S S H O U S E

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Did you know that the gallery offers a range of events and activities? They include free informal exhibition openings with live music, to Saturday afternoon activities to learn new craft techniques, artist talks, and a wide range of inspiring workshops. People often ask … Do I need to be an artist? Absolutely not! The gallery is a warm and welcoming place, where all you need to possess is an interest in the arts, culture and history. The events and activities are designed to connect anyone and everyone with the exhibitions in the gallery and discover their creative abilities. In 2016 the Gallery’s programmes have been very popular and have included a drawing workshop with well-known Australian artist Jennifer Keeler-Milne, exhibition openings for Northern Exposure 4 and the Hastings Valley

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Fine Arts Association, with crowds of over 200 people in the gallery space and the Craft Spots on the second Saturday of each month drawing a regular friendly group of like-minded souls. This June the Fabric Painting Workshops with Julie Paterson were so popular, the Gallery released a second workshop to cater for demand. Artist talks are one of the best ways to learn a little more about the inspiration and concept behind the exhibitions in the gallery. These relaxed evening events are an opportunity to meet the artist and learn a little more about their artistic practice and what inspires them. How do you find out what’s on? Visit www.glasshouse.org.au or pick up one of the Gallery season books or the general Glasshouse “What’s On”.

AU S T R A L I A N G L O B A L E N T E RTA I N M E N T Australian Global Entertainment presents Mark Vincent. Love Will lead The Way - Tour 2016 Mark Vincent, Australia's most loved 22 year old, is bringing his stunning new show to Glasshouse Port Macquarie. Mark Vincent has won the hearts of Australians. In his career so far, he has sold close to one million CDs. Experience the magnificence and beauty of Mark's truly spectacular voice. One of the best Tenor voices, not only in Australia, but the world! Don’t miss your opportunity to see him in

person. Mark will be performing songs of the great Tenor repertoire, including Granada, The Impossible Dream, Somewhere, With A Song In My Heart, Nessun Dorma and many more. There will also be lovely duets, supported by the Serenade Orchestra and vocalist Mo and ACE Award winner, Monique Montez. Book online or at the venues. "From the moment I first met this young man, it was clear he had a unique gift. It's been a privilege to see the journey so far." - Alan Jones, 2GB Radio.

GLASSHOUSE Events & Activities

Get Creative

Workshops Kids’ Sprouts Craft Spot

Be Inspired Openings Artist Talks Exhibitions

GLASSHOUSE REGIONAL GALLERY 02 6581 8888

glasshouse.org.au

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It’s about

time

GERMAINE CARTWRIGHT AND PARTNER ROSIE HAVE LOVED ANTIQUES AND COLLECTABLES SINCE THEY WERE TEENAGERS ... AND THAT IS QUITE A LONG TIME! THEYBOTH LOVE HISTORY, ARCHITECTURE AND ANTIQUITIES FROM ALL ERAS, SO IT WAS A NATURAL PROGRESSION FOR THEM TO COLLECT AND CONSERVE WONDERFUL PIECES OF HISTORY. THEIR PASSION FOR ALL THINGS OLD AND BEAUTIFUL INCLUDES VINTAGE CARS, MOTORCYCLES AND ANYTHING ELSE WITH A MOTOR, PROPELLER OR WINGS!

hat inspired you to bring It’s About Time Antiques to Port Macquarie? Rosie owned a successful antique and gift shop some years ago in Wauchope and when we had the opportunity to open another business in Port Macquarie, we decided to specialise in unusual period furniture, antique clocks, fine china and quality collectables. The Hastings area is home to many interesting collectors and antique aficionados - so we aimed to provide a broad, interesting and quality range of items that were also affordable. What are some your favourite collectables now in store? Now, that’s a hard question! I love everything in our shop, but right now I’m rather partial to a collection of French crystal perfume bottles ranging from 1890 to the Art Deco period. I also love a pair of rare Minton china plates, circa 1860, which are hand painted and exquisite in detail and colour. Where do you source new items? It is becoming more difficult to find treasures in good condition, so we mainly buy from interstate auctions and source certain items from the UK and France. We often go to Tasmania, where you can still find beautiful

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Georgian furniture pieces, early convict built items and rare china and glassware. Melbourne is the place for Victorian and Edwardian furniture and collectables, and Sydney is great for Art Deco items! Over the years we have had to crawl, climb and beat our way through dust and cobweb encrusted “junk” to find an amazing item … and that’s worth every bruise and spider bite! Is it interesting to find out the history behind certain pieces? What has been one of the most memorable? Without a doubt, it is a piece of furniture we bought at auction many years ago in Sydney. As soon as we saw it, we knew we had found something rare, very old, and extremely valuable. It was hidden at the back of the auction room propped on top of an old table and covered in boxes - obviously not considered worthy of a prominent place in the auction! The auction catalogue described it as a “French Oak farmhouse hutch - probably 1850 - 1890”. Our bid was the winning bid, and we still own this fantastic piece of history. When we had it authenticated by a furniture expert, we discovered it was dated between 1650 and 1730 and was one of the oldest pieces (in good condition) that he had seen in Australia. It is amazing to imagine how many people over the centuries have used this piece before us. What is satisfying about discovering rare

antiques? would you choose to live in? The research and constant learning feeds the Rosie: I would definitely go back to the brain, the hunt for rare and special English Georgian period. I love the architecture, items feeds the addiction, and the garden designs, the furniture and the the successful purchase décor of that time. The houses were helps to conserve grand but beautifully symmetrical, and then share the and the colours and textures Over the years we have had to history of such used were stunning. The d beat items. furniture of that era was of a crawl, climb an h dust our way throug Tell us about simple design but beautifully cruste d and cobweb en the brilliant crafted and totally practical. I “junk” to find an d French throne also love the china, glass and an amazing item … chair, circa 1850 silverware of the Georgian y that’s worth ever !” te bi - 1870 featured period … but there’s no way er id bruise and sp on the May FOCUS I could get into wearing the cover for Slice of clothes of that time! Haven. Germaine: If I could zoom back in The infamous “red time, I would land in Paris at the height embossed velvet upholstered French of the Belle Époque! I love all things Art Throne Chair” was found by Rosie Nouveau - the houses, jewellery, furniture, when she went to Sydney alone to object d’art and of course, the lifestyle that pick up some went with it! I would like to have been a stock we had bought at auction some weeks wealthy patron of the arts but knowing my before. While she was searching for packing luck, I would have been a can-can dancer material, she saw the throne hidden behind at the Moulin Rouge who drank too much some damaged furniture pieces. A closer look Absinthe! proved to find a fantastic forgotten item from Thanks Germaine and Rosie. the last auction. She bought it, then and there! It’s About Time Antiques, It is a lovely chair - which we will never sell, Shop 4/146 Lake Rd, corner Blackbutt Rd, because our cat now owns it! Port Macquarie, NSW If you could go back in time, which era 0423 146 926.

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P L AY E R S T H E A T R E Grease the Musical are the words that you heard at Players Theatre!

H A S T I N G S F I N E A RT GA L L E RY P E O P L E & P L AC E S A display of recent works by two local artists, Jo Ernst and Vanessa Newell - People and Places - will take place at Long Point Vineyard from June 1st to July 31st. Come along and meet the artists on Saturday 4th June at the gallery from 3pm to 5pm. Enjoy music by Spanish guitarist Quentin Arnold, who has performed with various groups playing Flamenco internationally. Jo Ernst is a mid career artist living and working in the Manning Valley. After completing the three year Dress Design Course at East Sydney Technical College in 1980, Jo worked as a couturier designer for 18 years. This was overlapped by studies in fine art in France with Ted Seth Jacobs, a tutor from the Art Student’s League, New York. After a further three years at Paddington Art School, Sydney, Jo embarked on a career as a visual artist and teacher. Vanessa Newell grew up in Sydney and worked as a professional Landscape Architect and Urban Designer in local government for more than twenty years. Since relocating to the Mid North Coast several years ago, she has been focusing on her lifelong passion for art and is now beginning to gain recognition as a successful emerging artist. Her main interest is in depicting the figure. Fairy tales, folklore, myth and legend inform her work, while imagination and memory are mined to unearth people, places, experiences, stories, objects and fragments.

The Hastings Valley Fine Art Association’s Hastings Fine Art Gallery has been operating successfully for almost two years in the grounds of the Maritime Museum. The mutually beneficial relationship between members of both organisations has seen combined outdoor community events held on the lawns. A new collection of paintings by an average of 47 artists is hung every three months to ensure an ongoing fresh, vibrant and varied experience for locals and tourists. Works are for sale in all media, in all styles from traditional to abstract, and there are always original cards to choose for any occasion. It is the hub for meetings, tutorials, regular art classes in drawing, portraiture and painting, as well as social events. In February and March this year the association held its third exhibition at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery, Pathways to Abstraction. In association with this exhibition, drawing classes and artists’ talks were conducted, and all proved very popular. HVFAA artists are currently working towards an exciting, combined exhibition with Great Lakes and Manning Valley Associations. Titled Confluence, it is to be held at the Manning Regional Gallery from17th November to 22nd January, 2017. The association’s major exhibition, Summer Showcase, which incorporates the Mid North Coast Open Art Prize, will be held for its twelfth year at the Laurieton United Services Club from 29th December - 8th January 2017. This exhibition has become widely known and respected for the high quality of original paintings, which are all for sale. Go to our website at: www.hastingsvalleyart.net.au for more information.

The Players Theatre Port Macquarie committee wish to thank local audiences, the cast and crew for making The Producers such a great success. It was a team effort to bring this Mel Brooks masterpiece to life, and now Players is gearing up for Director Hamish Keddie’s production of Grease the Musical. Grease will run from July 22 to August 14, 2016 and already rehearsals are in full swing, with the theatre filled with song and dance. Hamish has assembled a talented and energetic cast teamed with an equally gifted band of musicians to bring to life the great music we have come to know and love. Named after the 1950s United States working-class youth subculture known as greasers, the musical is set in 1959 at fictional Rydell High School and follows working-class teenagers as they navigate the complexities of peer pressure, politics, personal core values, and love. The score attempts to recreate the sounds of early Rock and Roll. Grease was first performed in 1971 in the original Kingston Mines nightclub in Chicago, a former trolley barn. From there, it has been successful on both stage and screen. It went on to become a West End hit, a successful feature film, two popular Broadway revivals in 1994 and 2007, and a staple of regional theatre. In the middle of winter you can enjoy “summer nights” with Players Theatre’s production. Tickets will go like “greased lightning”! So you can book now at Players Theatre website playerstheatre.org.au or at the Glasshouse Box Office. Still to come in 2016, Players Theatre presents the classic BBC comedy ‘Allo ‘Allo from September 23 to October 9 and Sweet Charity, 11 November to 4 December.

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REBECCA A S I A N

A I D

REBECCA HUNTER JOINED THE ASIAN AID TEAM IN 2012 AND HAS UTILISED HER BACKGROUND IN TEACHING TO ASSIST SCHOOLS OVERSEAS IN COUNTRIES SUCH AS INDIA AND NEPAL. REBECCA CAN OFTEN BE FOUND TRAVELLING TWO DAYS TO REACH A VILLAGE SCHOOL IN THE TEA PLANTATIONS OF NORTHERN INDIA, COLOURING IN WITH CHILDREN AT A PRESCHOOL IN THE CENTRE OF AN URBAN SLUM IN MUMBAI, OR TRAVELLING ON SOME INCREDIBLY SKETCHY MOUNTAIN ROADS IN NEPAL.

hat is your experience in teaching and education? I have been connected to teaching for the last 10 years. During my university degree I was lucky enough to teach in Cambodia and the Solomon Islands - both amazing introductions to the impact and power of a quality education, especially in developing countries. After I completed my Bachelor in Primary Education in 2009, I moved to Port Macquarie and taught for two years at Port Macquarie Adventist School. I was looking for another way to utilise and expand my teaching knowledge and experience, and while I loved teaching in Australia, the idea of teaching overseas always excited me. In early 2012 I joined the Asian Aid Team, first in the sponsorship programme and then in Child Rights and Protection. Even though Asian Aid has been working with schools for almost 50 years, I was the first teacher who had ever been employed to work there. So, it was both an exciting and overwhelming role to take on. What is your role with Asian Aid? At Asian Aid I am responsible for advocating for children’s rights and ensuring their best interests are paramount in all we plan and do. I lead in child focused training and am responsible for raising awareness of child safety and implementing Asian Aid’s child protection policy. I work with an amazing team of staff here in Wauchope and throughout Southern Asia. An avid traveller, what inspires you to

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help educate schools overseas? Over the past five years I have truly learnt the power of education. For so many families in India, Nepal and Bangladesh, education is life changing. While the parents of many children we work with are illiterate, their greatest dream is that their children will have better, easier lives - and education is central to achieving that. Seeing the change in families when children have the opportunity to go to school is what inspires me most - especially when students return home and teach their parents the alphabet, or how to count to 10 in English! How do you connect with different cultures and nationalities? I have always been fascinated to learn about other people’s lives and experiences. When I am travelling overseas, I always try to remain open to new trying things. From eating fried bugs in Cambodia, harvesting rice in Nepal, to seeing snow for the first time in Austria - I aim to try every new experience and learn as much as I can about the culture and the local people. What countries/places have you visited, and what are some of the highlights for you? I have been lucky enough to travel to over 25 countries in Southern and South East Asia, Europe and the Pacific. It’s hard to peg highlights, as I try my hardest to immerse myself into the local culture and in doing so, it all becomes an experience! Seeing the Himalayas for the first time in Nepal was absolutely breathtaking. Even now, every time I fly into Nepal, seeing the highest mountains in the world stirs something in my

soul. Once you land, eat your first meal of Daal Bhat (Nepali lentils and rice) and visit the projects, it’s just sensory overload! Tell us about some of the various projects you have been involved with overseas. Most of my work involves working with children, or teaching others how to transform the way they work with children. While I am no longer a full-time classroom teacher, I still use these skills when working overseas with school administration, training teachers in alternate discipline techniques, and demonstrating how to teach reading in the classroom with children. Another important aspect of my work is promoting Child Rights and Child Protection through training and awareness activities. As much as possible, I try to make my training practical and hands on. I prefer people to be engaged and involved in learning, rather than just sitting and listening - and I love to see people practically apply what they are learning. Why is undertaking these projects so important to you? These projects have given me greater perspective of my own life and how lucky I am to be Australian. More than that, it has allowed me to realise just how much I have to share and how many opportunities we each have to give very deserving communities a fair go. It helps us bridge the gap and realise that whether you are educating Australian kids or kids around the world, we’re all doing our bit to prepare the next generation to prosper. What changes do you hope to see in the near future in places like India and Bangladesh?

India and Bangladesh are countries so ripe and overflowing with culture and tradition. They are both so beautiful in their presentation, but at the same time, there are so many challenges. Some of the most important changes I feel could be realised are simple. Giving the next generation a shot at societal contribution through education will yield substantial change. The more youth, and specifically women, get secondary and tertiary level studies completed, the more new ideas and refreshed perspectives will be given a stage. Health and hygiene education will go a long way in eradicating highly preventable diseases. One of the biggest changes for me personally would be seeing the next generation fairly represented for who they are and see that their voice is heard among their nations. What is your current focus at Asian Aid? At the moment I am working on the development of a children’s personal safety programme, which is designed to teach children about their rights, how to keep safe and how to ask for help when they need it. I’m also excitedly planning my next trip overseas, which will see me travelling to a remote village school in western Nepal to conduct Child Rights and Protection training. Our team back here in Australia shares lots of our project photos and staff travels on our Instagram account; if people would like to get a glimpse of what this life is like, that’d be a good place to start! Thanks Rebecca.

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PUDENS ISABEL

IN 1966, ASIAN AID’S FOUNDER, MAISIE FOOK, SET OUT TO GIFT HOPE TO WAR-AFFECTED CHILDREN IN KOREA.

hat began with limited resources and dedicated volunteers and donors has grown into an active and life-changing organisation that impacts over 44,300 people in nine Asian countries each year. Today, Wauchope-based charity Asian Aid has helped thousands of children and families regain confidence and become agents of change for their own future. You may remember the story in May’s FOCUS about a Nepali woman named Jalamaya, who received a life-changing operation after suffering from uterine prolapse for 40 years. This month, we travel to India, where we meet a group of children who should have been at school, poring over textbooks, playing with friends and sharing lunches. Instead, the 12 young boys

were being forced to work at a leather bag factory in Bangalore, India, living in inhumane and unhygienic conditions. This situation lasted for several long and unsettling months, until Asian Aid’s partner, The Freedom Project India, intervened. The investigations team had monitored two factories for days, sometimes ‘til midnight, to gather information and gauge the activities going on inside. After multiple rounds of surveillance, the rescue team decided to move in, along with local law enforcement. Initially, the team found only adults working in the outer room. But when they went further in, they found three boys, aged 12 to 14. Nine more boys were rescued from the second factory. The children had been recruited and promised that 4,000 rupees a month (about

$80 AUD) would be sent to their families. The restricted communication with family meant none of the boys were ever sure if the money reached home. Reema (name changed), one of the rescuers, shared this: “Looking at the 12-year-old boy moved my heart. He was not fit to work at all. I was sure that he was not there out of choice. After the rescue, I asked them if they wanted to go home or go back to work. He said, ‘I want to go home.’” “What we are doing is so small compared to what needs to be done,” says Reema. “But if we all work together and everyone makes an effort, we can end such exploitation.” The next step for The Freedom Project India and Asian Aid is to ensure a safe future for

children. This is an undertaking that Asian Aid will take seriously. As Asian Aid celebrates 50 years of giving hope to thousands of children, women and communities in Asia, we invite you join our story of empowerment and transformation. This June, our aim is to raise $2 million. Would you consider donating a taxdeductible gift to Asian Aid this end of tax year (ending June 30)? Donate by visiting www.asianaid.org.au, calling (02) 6586 4250, or visiting our office at 132 Cameron Street, Wauchope. Please give big, knowing that your support will help us continue giving hope and empowerment to thousands of people each year.

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P M P A

S T U D E N T S

DISNEYLAND

STUDENTS FROM PMPA HAD THE TIME OF THEIR LIVES WHEN THEY VISITED AMERICA RECENTLY, WITH THE OPPORTUNITY PROVIDED TO PERFORM AT DISNEYLAND CALIFORNIA ... STACEY MORGAN SHARES SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THEIR JOURNEY.

MPA students have recently returned from an amazing opportunity dancing over in Disneyland California; can you tell us how this all came about? This was the second USA tour for Port Macquarie Performing Arts. With this tour we gave our dancers the opportunity to perform in both Los Angeles and New York City. It was truly a once in a lifetime opportunity; the experiences the dancers had, the teachers they took class with, performers they met and stages they performed on will make memories that they will never forget. What were the ages of the students who travelled to the USA, and how was it decided which students would be given the opportunity? We had 67 travellers in our tour group, with our dancers ranging from seven years to 17

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years of age. The opportunity was open to the itinerary for the dancers? all of the dancers who train with us Our first stop was Los Angeles, where at Port Macquarie Performing we performed our show Dance Arts. The dancers didn't through the Decades, which I need to audition; they choreographed along with just had to commit to two of our dancers who ow sh e their weekly classes toured to the USA with th As and attend all of the us in 2013, Kristi Gee we performed styles of y an m ed ur rehearsals in the lead and Teghan Johnson. at fe ers all dance, the danc up to the tour. We rehearsed the show shine in got a chance to As the show we here at home for the 18 genre...” their preferred performed featured months in the lead up to many styles of dance, the tour. We performed the dancers all got a this 25 minute show at Disneyland, Universal Studios and chance to shine in their Disney’s California Adventure. The preferred genre, whether that dancers joined dance studios from all be Jazz, Tap, Lyrical, Contemporary around the world to dance down Main or Musical Theatre, and we got to show Street in the Dance the Magic Disney Parade, off how well rounded and well trained a definite tour highlight! our dancers are! Then it was on to New York City, where our How long was the trip for, and what was

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dancers took class with industry professionals at Broadway Dance Center. We saw a number of Broadway shows (I managed to get in 12 in 9 days!) and danced on the stage of the famous Radio City Music Hall. We toured the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and took class in Beyoncé’s NYC rehearsal studio, with one of her dancers, yes THE Beyoncé! We ventured to the Lincoln Center, home of the New York City Ballet and the American Ballet Theatre and posed for arabesque photos near the famous fountain. We toured the New Amsterdam Theatre, home to Broadway shows such as Mary Poppins and Aladdin, we tried on costumes from famous Disney Musicals like Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast and The Lion King and our dancers tapped down the real 42nd Street. I travelled with my (patient!) husband, Heath, and our three year old Lucinda and eight month old Patrick, and we were away

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for just on three weeks, as we extended our teachers in the Gold Oscar and Silver Emmy time in NYC. Some families extended their studios. Jojo and Kendall actually watched tour and have only just returned now after parts of our dancers’ class; this was a real visiting Las Vegas, San Francisco and driving buzz for our dancers! Some of them loved cross country. Many families came home this almost as much as they loved Harry Potter via Hawaii - jealous! The tour itself was 18 World! days and included a good amount of free What was the highlight of your trip, and time amongst all of the performances and what do you think the students took masterclasses. away from the experience? And the girls also had the opportunity to I can't rave more highly about the tour or dance at the Abby Lee Dance the amazing dancers and dance Company in Los Angeles parents we took with us. and meet the girls Some families travelled from the famous TV with just Mum and ve all Our dancers ha show ... was this dancer, some took ired come home insp pre organised, Mum, Dad and so hard and are working or a complete siblings, others d that’s in the studio, an e ar surprise? took Grandma ey Th awesome to see. ey th e A complete and Grandpa dg le taking the know d an ur to surprise! As too. It was a on t took on whils t gs on am it g most of the real family affair, in they’re shar re at he s se as cl show is filmed r which is so in ei all of th ted such a ea cr s it’ d an in Pittsburgh, we the spirit of our e, hom amongst all gy er en e tiv were blown away school and the si po r studio.” when we hopped the dancers at ou values of friendship off our tour bus to see and teamwork that film cameras, personal we base all of our studio assistants running around and activities around. bright lights filling the studios. So Our dancers have all come many of our dancers are fans of Foxtel’s home inspired and are working so DANCE MOMS and the Abby Lee Dance hard in the studio, and that’s awesome Company, so they were already looking to see. They are taking the knowledge they forward to this part of the tour, but meeting took on whilst on tour and they’re sharing it them in person was something else! We were amongst all of their classes here at home, and told that from the footage they took, there it’s created such a positive energy amongst all was a high chance we will be on the show, so the dancers at our studio. keep your eyes out for our bright blue PMPA For me, I had two highlights. The first dance gear! was watching our dancers come around the I got to chat to Abby Lee (who was lovely, corner as they approached Main Street during by the way!) our students got to have photos the Disney Parade. With Sleeping Beauty’s with the dancers, and then we got to take castle as the backdrop, just like at the start of contemporary and tap classes from the show’s all those Disney movies we love, our dancers’

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smiling faces as they performed for over 5,000 people who were cheering them on ... It gets me every time. The video footage I took just has me sobbing with pride in the background! The second highlight was taking the kids to Broadway, the centre of the dance world. I have come home so inspired from all of the shows I got to see, including Hamilton (which will win all of the Tony Awards this year and is rumoured to be coming to Australia in 2020!) and I am loving using all of that inspiration in class with my dancers. So, what’s next? As far as international touring, our next Port Macquarie Performing Arts America tour will be in July 2020, where we hope to visit Disney World in Florida and then head back to NYC.

This will be open to all of our students, as long as they are seven years old by the time we get on the plane! I have Twinkle Toes who are already telling me they are coming along! We hope to offer our senior students the opportunity to travel to NYC in 2018 as an intensive tour focusing on masterclasses and shows, and for all of our students who want to stay closer to home we are cooking up something special for 2018 that involves a little bit of national touring - more on that as we get closer. For this year, our Intensive Performance Programme students are off to the Australian Dance Festival to compete in the Australia’s Best Dance Crew competition in September, and we perform Giselle at The Glasshouse in December. It never stops ... and I love it! greater port macquarie focus Special focus. Edition 49 13

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M C I LV E E N A W A R D - W I N N I N G

P O E T

LOCAL POET TOM MCILVEEN HAS RECEIVED MANY AWARDS OVER THE PAST SIX YEARS, AND HE’S TOPPED ALL OF HIS ACHIEVEMENTS OFF BY WINNING THE AUSTRALIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS LAST YEAR FOR BEST WRITTEN POEM ... FOLLOWED CLOSELY BY WINNING THE GOLDEN DAMPER PERFORMANCE AWARD IN TAMWORTH THIS YEAR. TOM TELLS US MORE ABOUT THE INSPIRATION BEHIND HIS LITERARY CREATIONS …

i Tom. It's been a few years since we spoke ... What's been keeping you occupied since then? Apart from my day job (which I sadly have not been able to give up), I have been busily writing every spare minute I get, and of late, after a long respite, have begun to get back into my guitar playing, which seems to help whenever writer’s cramp sets in (which is often). I am also a keen Toastmaster, which gives me a platform to write, create and then perform to an audience of creative like minded fellow members. To top off an unusually busy year, I was recently appointed president of the ABPA (Australian Bush Poets’ Association). We have regular committee meetings by Skype, with a fully appointed committee and delegates representing each Australian state. Our aim is to coordinate competitions around Australia, and to foster and encourage fellow performers and writers to preserve our craft and keep alive our proud Australian heritage and culture. We have a website with an interactive forum for discussion and a library of all award winning poems in recent years by contemporary Australian poets (www.abpa. org.au). You've been very successful with your poetry over the past 12 months, having won the Golden Damper Poetry Award for your original poem Eugene. What is this poem about, and why does it have special meaning for you? I wrote the poem Eugene in dedication to my cousin, Private Lloyd Allen of Tamworth, who returned from the Vietnam War both physically and emotionally damaged. It tells the story of a father comforting his rehabilitating son, Eugene, who has just returned from war, only to be scorned and rejected by the homecoming crowds. You had to read this poem on stage in front of a live audience and a panel of judges to win the award ... How do you cope with the nerves ahead of a performance like this? Do you enjoy live readings? Reading poetry in a performance competition is an absolute no-no! A poem must be performed

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on stage without notes. Performers are judged on voice variation, projection and enunciation, appropriate gestures and emotional audience appeal ... The Golden Damper Award is run each year in Tamworth during the Country Music Festival, and is considered to be the holy grail of Poetry Performance Awards around Australia. I got to perform on the big stage in front of a panel of four accredited judges and a large audience and won first place for performance of Eugene. It truly was a buzz to perform at that level, and the adrenaline does lift you to another notch. We have a saying in Toastmasters ... That we learn to keep the butterflies flying in formation. The more time you spend performing in front of an audience, the easier it gets, unless you are born with a natural aptitude for it (which I certainly wasn’t). Do I enjoy it? Yes, absolutely! And winning at that level is certainly an added bonus, making the experience even more special. There is nothing more satisfying than being able to perform and share your own work with an appreciative audience. You get to breathe life into the characters that you have created and share the emotions that originally inspired you to write it. What are some of the other awards you've won recently? Other awards I have won recently include the Australian Championships, which were held in Victoria last year for the best written poem, entitled If God Only Knew. This competition was judged by three accredited written judges. I have been very fortunate to have won about 36 national written competitions over the past six years, including the Bush Lantern twice, the Rolfe Boldrewood Literary awards twice, Federation of Australian Writers’ Boree Log four times, the Man from Snowy River Festival, The Banjo Paterson award, West Australian Boyup Brook twice and the Henry Lawson Literary and Poetry awards twice. I was also greatly honoured to win a Golden Laureate award in Tamworth last year, as part of the Country Music awards, for the best published poem of the year, entitled The Ghost Of Long Tan.

I feel truly bles se

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a What do you feel throughout Australia and honoured as d an e ic vo your crowning a and closer to home, I ve ha poet , to rm fo at pl a achievement as a am also president of n ve gi to be ds and poet has been in our local group here to share my wor he rs ... ” recent times? calling ourselves “Port feelings with ot My greatest Macquarie Poets and crowning achievements Minstrels”. We meet in recent times would every second Sunday at 1pm undoubtedly have to be at the Senior Citizens Hall in winning the Australian ChampiMunster Street, Port Macquarie. onships last year for best written poem Anybody is welcome to join us with a ... Followed closely by winning the Golden poem, a song or a story to share and can Damper performance award in Tamworth reach me for enquiries on 0417 251 287. this year. Where can people read/purchase your work? What continually inspires you to write My award winning poems, as well as many poetry? others by leading Australian contemporary I am not sure where this crazy compulsion poets, are available online at our website: comes from that drives me to keep on writing. www.abpa.org.au It truly is an obsession! I have always had an What's next on your agenda? aptitude for writing and remember having my I continue to write ... write ... write ... hoping poems published in the school magazine. I also to create and find inside of me, that one special remember excitedly looking forward to English masterpiece that every writer strives for (my pièce classes at school and enjoying all facets of English de résistance). I believe I have it there inside of literature. me somewhere, and am determined to write it I believe that writers have a voice within them before I hang up my pen. that needs to be heard and shared by form of the I am currently endeavouring to publish a book written word. Poetry is a great platform for this. of my poems, together with anecdotes and A lifetime of experience, feelings and emotions photos to further enhance them and explain can be condensed into one page of a poem, and the source of inspiration for each one, so that expressed with words, in a similar way to that of the reader has a greater understanding and musicians and songwriters expressing themselves appreciation of the poem. I feel truly blessed and in song, or the artist who does it with paint on honoured as a poet, to have a voice and to be canvas. given a platform to share my words and feelings What poetry/speaking groups are you a with others, and to be given the opportunity member of currently? to leave something of myself behind for future As mentioned above, I am currently Presigenerations to come. dent of the national ABPA association of poets Thanks Tom. Interview by Jo Atkins.

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Plus New Sculptures, New Sponsors, New Locations

Oceania Anthony Flanders

Mr T David Pride

Kirralee Beverley Coleman

Wildlife Warrior Kim McLean

Stoney Bruce Whittaker

Guula - Wauchope TAFE Visual Art Students

Granny Square Suzanne Fischer

Princess Lasiandra Breana Purdie

Cowala Kim Staples

Bago Blossom The Amaze-ing Koala - Kellie Mobbs

OMA Kerry Smith-Taughkin

Laurie Don Brown

Australiana Below The Surface Chantelle Ferri

Ede Zoya Kraus

Crusader Koala Dale Leach

Sunshine John Williamson

Bushby Lisa Burrell

Radiant Heart Goya Torres

Lord Burrawan - Port Macquarie Hastings Council Staff

Ocean Pauline Roods

Willow Carolyn Wagsta

Koala Noir Beric Henderson

Lumpa Patricia Philp

Dame Koala Tracy Smith

Garage Girl Leanne Prussing

Topiary Nicole Lister

Con The Koala Jill Williams

Forest Pauline Roods

Kalido Francessca O’Donnell

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Koala P. Crossingsafe III, ‘AKA’ Percy- Fran Barratt

Ziggy Kim Staples

Celtic Koala Yvonne Kiely

Starry Soul Goya Torres

The Cyclist Suzanne Fischer

Sandy Paws Kim Staples

Scoop Rebekah Brown

Koalatron Joel Cameron

Carramar Elise Howard

Puzzles Kerry Smith -Taughkin

Gum Blossom Suzanne Pride

Mack The Surf Life Saver Pauline Roods

Retro Rita Francessca O’Donnell

Bindi Isabell Moran

Koala Z David Pride

I’m No Bear Brigid Vidler

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Captain Koala Tristan Murray

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Mayor Of The Koala Republic - Pauline Roods

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focus Special Edition 15

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A RT S & C U LT U R E F E AT U R E

C O F F S H A R B O U R M OV I E C LU B Share our love of quality cinema and join Coffs Harbour Movie Club, as we present “arthouse”, foreign language and Australian cinema at a monthly event. Coffs Harbour Movie Club was established in October 2013 as a Coffs Harbour City Council and BCC Cinemas Coffs Harbour partnership. Held on the first Monday of each month, the film commences at 7pm, and tickets are $15 per person.

The Golden 20s near Paris, and every year at Marguerite Dumont’s castle there is a party devoted to music. The hostess sings wholeheartedly, but out of tune. She lives her passion inside her own bubble, but when a young journalist writes a rave review ... will she dare to share her passion beyond the castle walls? “Splendid, moving, exquisite. Cover your ears and open your hearts” - Peter Debruge, Variety. Tickets are on sale now at: www.eventcinemas.com.au

There is also a member’s function from 6pm, where you can enjoy wine and other refreshments in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Annual membership is $12 and is available from Council representatives at each event.

Past titles include: Blue Jasmine, Blancanieves, The Turning, Wajda, The Wind Rises, Charlie's Country, Nebraska, Mr Turner, Leviathan, The Clouds of Sils Maria, Macbeth, Holding the Man, Tehran Taxi, Son of Saul and Anomalisa.

On Monday, June 6th we present Marguerite (M), directed by Xavier Giannoli, starring Catherine Frot.

For more details about the events and membership: www.coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au or email Artenews@chcc.nsw.gov.au

AU S T R A L I A N G L O B A L E N T E RTA I N M E N T Australian Global Entertainment presents Mark Vincent. Love Will lead The Way - Tour 2016 Mark Vincent, Australia's most loved 22 year old, is bringing his stunning new show to Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre. Mark Vincent has won the hearts of Australians. In his career so far, he has sold close to one million CDs. Experience the magnificence and beauty of Mark's truly spectacular voice. One of the best Tenor voices, not only in Australia, but the world!

Don’t miss your opportunity to see him in person. Mark will be performing songs of the great Tenor repertoire, including Granada, The Impossible Dream, Somewhere, With A Song In My Heart, Nessun Dorma and many more. There will also be lovely duets, supported by the Serenade Orchestra and vocalist Mo and ACE Award winner, Monique Montez. Book online or at the venues. "From the moment I first met this young man, it was clear he had a unique gift. It's been a privilege to see the journey so far." - Alan Jones, 2GB Radio.

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focusinterview.

SAM PHILLIPS AND MATT WISE HAVE WORKED AS RIVAL PROMOTERS IN THE LOCAL MUSIC INDUSTRY FOR SEVERAL YEARS. RECENTLY JOINING FORCES, THEY HAVE ANNOUNCED PLANS TO ORGANISE A NEW FESTIVAL, BANANA FIELD MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH THE DASTARDLY DUO TO FIND OUT WHAT PUNTERS CAN LOOK FORWARD TO.

hat is your background and connection to the Coffs Coast? As kids, we both grew up at the beach surfing up and down the coast. We also have a big interest in music, throwing events from the age of 18 until now at local venues. What do you love most about living on the Coffs Coast? Having such a large group of friends and family who all live on the Coffs Coast and also being surrounded by so many beach breaks. Can you briefly describe your event? We’re giving back to the community. We are showcasing local arts and entertainment with a huge Australian and international line up, but we can’t release whom ... just yet! Where did the idea for the event come from? We have always been rival competitors in the Coff’s music scene, but two months ago we decided to join forces. I guess the two of us had already had the idea in our minds and when we became a team, it just sparked and

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We real grew from there. year. want this to Coffs Coast has been What makes the be a community missing out on this Coffs Coast an t event and to ge scene for many years, ideal location for the whole family and we want to create an event such as st down here to ju a place where everyone this? enjoy the banana can come together and Coastal location town we live in .” find something they really is always a bonus. can enjoy from food, drinks We have so many and live entertainment. surrounding towns. We’re What are some of the acts or right in the middle of Sydney attractions people can look forward and Brisbane. to seeing? Why do you think that Coffs has At this stage we can’t release too not had a decent festival? much, but we have put a poll out over the It’s been years since any sort of music Facebook event page and left it up to the festival, unless it’s been a travelling community to vote. Let’s just say, people festival. It’s very expensive to start your will be amazed. We really want this to be own festival; you need a large group of a community event and to get the whole promoters, volunteer workers and support family down here to just enjoy the banana from the local community. town we live in. Have you had previous experience Do you think there is a lack of this kind organising events similar to this? of event on the Coffs Coast? We have been running indoor events for We definitely agree that there is a gap the past five plus years. missing for these events in Coffs. There What are your hopes for the future of are many places to go and see a small the event? scale of arts/entertainment, but this will be We’re working on a three year plan. something people will look forward to every Our first year we plan to start small; we’re

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focusing more on the art during the day, with it building into band and electronic acts performing throughout the evening. There will be something for everyone. What is the hardest thing about organising an event like this? The weather and not knowing if it’s going to be a beautiful day or a shocking day. How did you decide on the venue? We originally had two other venues in mind, but with most music festivals we have been to, a large amount of them were at Race Clubs. It made sense to arrange a time to meet up with the team at the Coffs Harbour Race Club and walk around on the day and picture the event taking place. Where can people find out more about the event? Currently you can follow our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/ Bananafieldfestival - we’re putting the finishing touches on the website before the ticket and lineup launch. Event details: Banana Field Music and Arts Festival. October 29th, 2016; Coffs Harbour Race Club. Thanks guys.

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O U R C R E AT I V E S PAC E S

The first show with the all-new decor will be Matt Hale’s comedy show, Hypnolicious, on Friday, June 3rd, followed by Australian singer-songwriter Josh Pyke on Sunday, June 5th. In June, Coffs Harbour’s only boutique theatre also features the region’s best dancers performing for the eisteddfod and Australia’s largest travelling stand-up comedy show, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow. Just another reason why new audiences are flocking to Coffs Harbour’s Jetty Memorial Theatre. Upcoming Shows

Hypnotism. Performing arts. Laugh out loud comedy. The music of Cat Stevens. It’s easy to see why more and more new faces are coming to the Jetty Memorial Theatre to get their arts and culture fix.

Matt Hale A Comedy Hypnosis Treat Show: Friday 3 June | 8pm A Community Performance

Coffs Harbour & District Eisteddfod Gala Concert Shows: Sunday 19 June | 3.30 & 6pm

TOURING SHOW

A Jetty Theatre Touring Presentation…

COMMUNITY SHOW

In consultation with the community, Coffs Harbour City Council is currently exploring ideas and options to build a new library and gallery for our region. The goal is to create progressive spaces of design excellence, for community collaboration, which will offer opportunities for inspiration and education into our future. Places which will be welcoming “people places”, where the cultural products of the world and the nation can be shared, while expressing the aspirations of our whole community. The possibilities are exciting … Together, let’s think, dream and create.

The Jetty Memorial Theatre is in the process of undergoing a metamorphosis. The Jetty Memorial Hall which began its life 1927, has recently undergone some long overdue maintenance sporting a beautiful new art-installation chandelier in the tower, new lighting throughout, and fresh paint job inside and out. The most exciting news for lovers of live theatre, music, cinema, and culture in Coffs, is that the Jetty Memorial Theatre auditorium will also soon be home to all new and improved seating!

A Jetty Theatre Touring Presentation…

Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow

TOURING SHOW

In Coffs Harbour, we are now looking to the future in terms of our cultural spaces for the whole community. Libraries are no longer places for books alone - they are hubs of creativity, technology, learning and ideas. Likewise, galleries offer interactive, dynamic experiences which take us beyond simply “viewing” to “participating” fully in the cultural experience.

J E T T Y T H E AT R E FAC E L I F T

Shows: 22 June – 24 June | 7:30pm Darren Coggan presents…

Peace Train A Tribute to Cat Stevens

Show: Saturday 2 July | 2pm & 8pm

jettymemorialtheatre

@jettytheatre

TOURING SHOW

The famed libraries of ancient civilisations, and the evidence of the earliest rock art, prove that access to knowledge and creative expression has always been a key part of the human cultural experience.

Proudly supported by

Box office hours Tues to Fri 12 noon – 4pm jettytheatre.com | phone 6652 8088 | 337 Harbour Drive Coffs Harbour coffs coastEdition focus. 19 31 focus Special

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THE MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL ROADSHOW IS AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST TRAVELLING COMEDY TOUR, BRINGING WORLD CLASS COMEDIANS TO OVER 80 DESTINATIONS AROUND THE COUNTRY. SEVENTEEN YEARS IN, THE TOURING COMEDY SHOW GROWS IN POPULARITY YEAR ON YEAR, WITH AUDIENCES REGULARLY PACKING OUT THE JETTY MEMORIAL THEATRE ACROSS THREE SIDE-SPLITTING NIGHTS OF ORIGINAL STAND-UP COMEDY.

oadshow features a diverse group covering all comedy styles, and provides comedy lovers all over the country with a chance to see performers they may not have seen, bringing the best in comedy to regional and remote areas of Australia. Last year audiences saw a large Irish man (in a full suit, no less) do the entire choreography to Beyonce’s Single Ladies, so here’s a little insight into what audiences can expect from five established and rising stars in the Australian comedy circuit for the 2016 Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow at Coffs Harbour’s Jetty Memorial Theatre. This year’s lineup is better than ever, scouting the brightest new talent in the laughs game. Andy Saunders This year holding the MC microphone is Andy Saunders, who has forged ahead as one of Australia’s leading Indigenous comedians, developing sets that puts forward a thoughtprovoking message that has addressed and undressed many social injustices and is always shrouded in laughter. His first ever casual dabble in comedy back in the late nineties saw him become runner up in triple j RAW comedy search. Andy believes that the best way to change the world for the better is through laughter and that a human being is at their most vulnerable while laughing, so get ready to be at the peril of this new, relevant and necessary brand of comedy.

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Rob Hunter Jess made her stand up debut in the 2015 With an intelligent, unusual and uniquely RAW comedy competition, earning herself a appealing style, Rob’s stand-up shows have special mention at the National Final. Since received critical and popular acclaim at the then she has hit the ground running, appearing Adelaide Fringe and Melbourne International on ABC2’s Comedy Up Late, Channel 31 Comedy Festival, resulting in multiple outstanding programmes About Tonight, Live on Bowen and reviews and award nominations. Offbeat as well as presented on SYN FM and JOY In 2011 Rob was hand-picked by US superstar FM. Jess has also produced a web series, First comedian Louis CK as a support act on his Date with Jess and co-hosts a trivia based podcast Australian tour, including sold-out shows called Do Go On. Described as “jaunty” and at the Athenaeum in Melbourne “bright”, Jess has gone from strength and Sydney Opera House to strength in her first year of (in Sydney). Rob was comedy and is definitely one to ‘This year ’s frightened, but did a good watch. line-up is job. Urzila Carlson , better than ever Rob also presents South African born New scouting the nt le a bizarre talk and Zealand citizen, comic Urzila ta w brightest ne e’ m ga sketch show called hs Carlson took to the stage ug in the la e, yl Bo Late O’clock, which can for the first time in 2008 ie al - Nat ” e. tr ea Th y and has since racked up an be seen on his YouTube tt Je impressive array of awards for channel or live at various her stand up, including “Best comedy festivals. Consistently Female Comedian” at the 2010, sold-out, the show is a cult 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014 NZ Comedy favourite, with a guest list including Guild Awards and the coveted TV3 PEOPLE’S Wil Anderson, Adam Hills, Claire Hooper, CHOICE AWARD at the 2013 and 2014 New Tony Martin, Ronny Chieng, DeAnne Smith Zealand International Comedy Festival. (USA), Tom Gleeson, Sam Simmons, Hannah She has had five sold out solo seasons Gadsby and Ryan “Toadfish” Moloney! “It’s (2010 - 2014) at the New Zealand International corker stuff!” - The Age. Comedy Festival. She was invited to Melbourne With an oddball perspective but the ability to International Comedy Festival in 2013 and 2014 appeal to a crowd, Rob Hunter is a different yet by international comedy promotional giants Live still very accessible comedian. Nation, where she had hugely successful sell out Jess Perkins

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seasons and appeared on the televised Oxfam Comedy Gala and Comedy Up Late. Sam Taunton Sam Taunton is quickly establishing himself as one to watch in the Australian comedy landscape. Bursting onto the scene in the 2015 RAW Comedy National Final, he received the judges’ “Special Mention” award and has since gone on to play venues all around the country. Handpicked by the Melbourne International Comedy Festival to be part of the prestigious “Comedy Zone” showcase at the 2016 Comedy Festival, he’s emerging as one of the most charming acts and in-demand hosts in the country. As seen and heard on ABC Television’s Comedy Up Late, Channel [V], Triple J, NOVA, Channel 31, and JOY FM. Sam is a new player on the circuit, who is quickly gathering a reputation for bringing the house down. The Melbourne International Comedy Festival has grown from strength to strength to become one of the largest comedy festivals in the world, launching the careers of Dave Hughes, Celia Pacquola, Luke McgGregor, Joel Creasey, Peter Helliar, Corrine Grant, Nazeem Hussain and many more big names in Australian comedy. For a serious night of the giggles, tears of laughter, and some split sides, patrons can book their tickets directly from the Jetty Memorial Theatre on (02) 6652 8088 or online through www.jettytheatre.com. Book early to avoid disappointment.

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“IT’S JUST A BIG JOKE – A BIT OF FUN,” SAID THE EXHIBITION’S CREATIVE DIRECTOR, PETER BATEY OAM, ABOUT THE COMPETITION HE FOUNDED IN 1994, AS PART OF THE FESTIVAL OF FUN ...

ho would have thought it would become one of the most popular and eccentric art events on the Australian scene and one that attracts entries from both leading artists and newbies of all styles and standards! “Basically, it’s a send-up,” said Peter Batey, who is acknowledged by greats like Barry Humphries and Reg Livermore as having had a major influence on the development of Australian comedy and satire over the past 50 years. “A spoof that takes the mickey out of the Archibald Prize, which many, including some of our leading artists, believe has become a bit too pompous and self-important.” The Bunker Gallery has, for many years, been privileged to be one of the few regional galleries to host this out-there exhibition, keeping it up with its big city counterparts. This year’s exhibition features 45 great works, all perfectly in line with The Bunker’s cartooning and humour charter. The criteria is similar to that of the Archibald - subjects have to be well-known Australians in fields such as culture, politics, business, sport and medicine, but with the added plus that the works must be comical or satirical. “It’s not surprising it’s our most popular show each year,” says the Bunker’s Fran Stephenson. With this in mind, winning works over the

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Basically it’s a send-up ... A the f spoo that takes e Th mickey out of hich w e’ iz Pr ‘Archi bald me so g in ud cl in many, , ts tis of our leading ar e a m co believe has be and bit too pompous ” t. an rt po self-im

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years have included hilarious portraits of high flyers like: Kerry Packer, Amanda Vanstone, Edmund Capon, Shane Warne, Dame Edna Everage, John Howard, Pauline Hanson, Robbie and Gai Waterhouse, Rupert Murdoch, Jeff Kennett, Cardinal George Pell, Tony Abbott, Russell Crowe and Ian Thorpe. In fact, anyone’s a target. But who has suffered the ire of the artist’s brush this year? Regular entrant, Ed McMahon, along with a number of other artists, chose Bronwyn Bishop as his subject. “I’ve always thought that with her ballooned sponge cake hairstyle and pearly, furry attire, Bronwyn Bishop would make a great cartoon character. It wasn’t until the luxury helicopter episode and her arrogant excuse for wasting taxpayer’s money that I decided to make her my subject this year. It was natural to depict her in a more suitable form of transport and capture her expression of sheer delight at the experience." Another regular entrant and two-time past winner, Judy Nadin, decided to do politicians this year, painting both Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and Bronwyn Bishop as her subjects.

“As we know, Malcolm Turnbull is an extremely cashed-up guy. With that in mind, I thought he would look fabulous as Gainsborough’s Blue Boy. The Blue Boy looks like a bit of a toff to me, and I wanted a snotty look on Turnbull’s face like he was out-of-touch with mere mortals. At the time of painting, the Turnbull Government was starting to make funding cuts … Hence the scissors. I correctly predicted that he would stab himself in the foot like Edward Scissorhands. The title the The New Boy is obviously a play on the original Gainsborough title. “My Bronwyn Bishop entry was of course a send-up of the famous Choppergate scandal. The latest Star Wars movie had just opened. I imagined Bronwyn travelling in an enemy First Order Fighter, acknowledging her public from above with a royal wave. ‘May the Force be with you’ is the iconic expression from Star Wars; I felt ‘May the Remorse be with you’ was the perfect title, because she showed little remorse at the time.” And, only in Australia, you my rightly say. In line with our own unique brand of larrikinism, another aspect which sets the Bald Archy Prize apart from any other art competition

and draws media attention worldwide is that it’s judged each year by a sulphur-crested cockatoo named Maude. And while many of us would have differing opinions to those of the judges of the prestigious Archibald Prize; conversely, no one would dare to challenge the impeccable artistic eye of that cantankerous old bird, Maude, who claims to be just as qualified at the entire Board of Governors of the Art Gallery of NSW. As Coffs Harbour enjoys the Bald Archy Prize, this year the winner of the $10,000 prize is still to be announced. Bunker visitors are invited to test their own artistic eye by selecting their favourite work. Those who correctly nominate the winning work announced in Sydney on July 22 will go in a draw to win a copy of the new Bald Archy souvenir book, In Yer Face, valued at $35.

the plug! The Bald Archy Prize Exhibition - Bunker Cartoon Gallery, John Champion Way, Coffs Harbour, until Sunday, June 11. Opening times: 10am - 4pm, seven days. Cost: $5 adults; $3 children u/16; u/5 free. Phone 6651 7343 or www.bunkercartoongallery.com.au

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MONNERON

CHRISTINA MONNERON IS A PASSIONATE PERFORMER AND DANCER WHO USES HER TALENTS TO HELP PEOPLE RECOVER FROM TRAUMA AND DESPAIR. FOCUS WENT ALONG TO A RECENT CLASS TO SEE IF WE COULD LEARN TO SALSA AND FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS VIVACIOUS LADY.

an you tell us a bit about your background and your connection with the Coffs Coast? I was born in the paradise island of Mauritius and migrated to Australia with my family when I was six years old, to Perth, then to Melbourne. After five years as a pharmaceutical scientist in Sweden, I fell in love with all things Cuban and went to Cuba to immerse myself in Afro-Cuban folklore. That journey led me to become initiated priestess of ceremonies and rituals of Afro-Cuban spirituality. I brought this knowledge back to Melbourne and established the first Cuban Dance Academy in Australia in 1999. I moved to the Coffs Coast six years ago, and started Kulturithmik to teach Cuban dance, but felt there was more to do than what I came here for, so I explored further to find the deep connection to country I had been seeking. Through my search, I was introduced to the amazing women of WOW, Women of the World Community, and inspiring indigenous elder Aunty Bea Ballangarry, who became a mentor and great friend. I am now a core member of WOW and help bring women and girls together in harmony, mainly through the medium of dance. It was through this work that I was awarded Coffs Harbour’s International Women’s Day Woman of the Year in 2015, an extremely proud moment for me. Can you explain what it is that you do? I am a community developer who actively promotes Arts and Culture on the Coffs Coast.

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My work enables me to live out my passion All forms of the arts are highly promoted by for Cuban culture through dance and music. the government in Cuba. Visual artists, artisans I teach Cuban Salsa with my supportive and music are on every corner, whether in Kulturithmik "K-team" on a weekly basis in bars, galleries or in people’s homes. Dance Coffs, Bellingen and Nambucca. I host an and movement are great mediums to express annual international Cuban dance and music emotions - in some of the Afro-Cuban dances event in Sawtell, annual Cuban culture tours, you can be expressing the sensual flow of sing in Coffs Coast’s only Latin music ensemble the river, to the wild, angry turbulence of the (Fuego) at Coffs Coast community festivals, ocean. In "Son", the predecessor to worldand am fortunate to also be invited to different popular Salsa, the chivalry of the gentleman parts of the world teaching meets the elegance of the lady. It’s workshops. mesmerising to watch and How does Cuban culture exhilarating to partake! and approach to life When you take We practice help to promote people on trips to ; ng ni deep liste happiness? Cuba, what is their d an we honour e on Cubans have an reaction; what do er w po help em d, ar he be incredible vitality and they experience? to r, he anot d. It te ec nn positive approach At first, it’s a culture co el fe to oach to life. Living under shock. It’s loud, total is a gentle appr a.” the restrictions of the sensory overload, and to healing traum US blockade created nothing seems to work resourcefulness in the "logically"! Cuba is like no people; they operate in real other country, and seasoned community spirit with sustainable travellers don’t believe that until means. They freely express their emotions they experience it for themselves. But - they sing about how they have been once you walk the streets of the historic wronged by their government, their Old Havana and connect to the locals, have a partners, or about how happy and in-love they little dance in a corner bar, you warm to the are. Depression is low. Cubans know how to place so much, it’s hard to leave. I tell people really connect to one another, in a way that they will get Post-Cuba Blues when they leave, astounds me every time I return (and that’s and the only remedy is to return! been almost every year since 1998!) As a Sacred Story Circle Facilitator, what Dancing, movement and music are do you do? important parts of the culture; can you tell Sacred Story Circles involve bringing back us about this? the old ways of our original peoples, through

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sharing our story, finding our commonalities and understanding and embracing our diversity. It is created in a culturally safe environment, usually with sacred ceremony. We practice deep listening; we honour and help empower one another, to be heard, to feel connected. It is a gentle approach to healing trauma. Afrekete Afro-Cuban Dance and Music Camp: when and where is it held, and what happens? It’s an annual event supported by Coffs Harbour City Council and Arts Council Inc, which unites Cuban dance and music artists from around Australia and NZ to share their culture through dance, song and music workshops on the last weekend of January. People come from all over Australia and NZ to attend! The opening "Hot Havana Night" performance and party night is at Sawtell RSL, and the workshops at Sawtell Beach Holiday Park. The next event is 27 - 29 January 2017, and tickets can be purchased via: www. afrekete.com. You are about to travel to New Caledonia; what will you be doing there? I’m attending the Noumea Latin Festival and assisting three of my Cuban colleagues in their workshops, as well as networking for Afrekete and also the Aotearoa Cuban Festival in Rotorua, NZ. There is a team of us who follow the circuit of Cuban festivals and assist each other when we are invited. I’m really looking forward to this, as it’s my first time in New Caledonia and I get to practice French. Thanks Christina.

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SABRINA & CO STYLIST Sabrina, tell me what makes your business unique? This personal one-to-one service is something you find in Sydney, Brisbane or Melbourne, and I’m bringing it to the Coffs Coast. My sessions focus on polishing your look to bring out your natural flair. It’s an indulgent experience in luxury focusing on your body shape, lifestyle, and a it’s a sure-fire way to boost your wellbeing and self confidence. Tell me about your personal and professional background? I was born and raised in Korea; I’m now living in Sawtell. I’ve worked in Seoul, Sydney and London for 20 years with prestigious luxury brands Louis Vuitton, Yves Saint Laurent, Calvin Klein, Loewe, Ermenegildo Zegna and Emporio Armani. I have personally styled the rich and famous, including high profile clients - Beyoncé, Penelope Cruz, UK Vogue editor Alexandra Shulman, Sam Taylor-Johnson and Kate Moss, to everyday clients like yourself. Sabrina & Co Irresistible Experiences: Personal stylist, wardrobe detox, A New You Makeover, corporate image consulting, personal shopping experiences, special occasion styling, men’s styling, group styling session, gift vouchers, commercial styling, luxury shopping trips to Sydney, and consultations via Skype for remote clients.

L OV E L I T E R AT U R E ? L OV E F I L M ? Getting to the end of a brilliant book, but don’t want to finish

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it? Every literature lover knows that feeling. Perhaps it’s the weekend, and you’d like to curl up and watch a great film

Our community has a rich variety of cultural activities and events to enjoy. From exhibitions, performances and festivals to workshops, films, talks and much more, the Coffs Coast is home to much creativity and artistic expression. This is a great foundation to build on for an even brighter and more exciting future. In collaboration with the community, Coffs Harbour City Council is currently developing a new Cultural Strategic Plan for 2017 to 2022. The plan will essentially be a blueprint for vibrant living and will recognise the central role of arts and culture in making our region such a great place to live and work. The plan will explore the economic, social and cultural wellbeing of our community in relation to arts, creativity, heritage and our shared cultural experience.

that expands your horizons … But the blockbusters available

The plan will guide cultural investment and activity and inform planning, programming and funding priorities. An important component will be to assess the viability of a new Performing Arts Centre in the region.

your hands? Easy - reserve your next read online, and collect it

Passionate about our cultural life? Have your say…

story in person over a glass of wine. Enjoy!

online don’t quite hit the mark? We are so lucky to have a great service in town that offers the ideal solutions - and for free! In addition to three branches at Coffs Harbour, Woolgoolga and Toormina, Coffs Harbour Libraries offer a comprehensive service online and a home delivery service for housebound members. E-books, e-magazines and e-audio books are available instantly through the library website. Or choose from the incredible Beamafilm collection and stream some of the world’s best features and documentaries for free. All you need is your library card number. Prefer the feeling of a book in at your nearest branch. Regular, free author talks also offer the opportunity to head to the library to meet your favourite authors and hear their

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COFFS HARBOUR REGIONAL

GALLERY MUSEUM ENJOY A SENSE OF SPACE, COLOUR AND LIGHT WITH A VISIT TO THE COFFS HARBOUR REGIONAL GALLERY. DISCOVER FASCINATING STORIES FROM OUR PAST AT COFFS HARBOUR’S REGIONAL MUSEUM.

offs Harbour Regional Gallery has been presenting exciting exhibitions for the last 15 years and the dedicated Friends of the Gallery have been purchasing works to help build an art collection for the city of which we can all be proud. Exhibitions take place around every six weeks throughout the year and feature artists from across Australia, covering a broad range of media from painting and sculpture to photography, ceramics and 3D. Work by local or regional artists is an important element of exhibitions and is often showcased alongside the work of other betterknown artists. The Gallery welcomes an open mind and has presented exciting exhibitions by extreme performance artists such as Mike Parr and Stelarc, both of whom raise often confronting questions about the human experience. Opening night is always a buzz and on the first Saturday of each new exhibition, the Gallery welcomes art lovers for a free morning tea and the opportunity to meet the exhibiting artist/s for an event that is invariably informative, entertaining and inspirational.

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One of the highlights of the Gallery’s year is Coffs Harbour’s very own Eutick Memorial Still Life Award (EMSLA) exhibition, held annually in November and now in its tenth year. The EMSLA is renowned as one of Australia’s major art prizes and receives hundreds of national entries which feature a dynamic variety of representations of the still life genre and always prove to be engaging, fresh and exciting. Every two years the gallery is also delighted to present paintings from The Archibald Prize, awarded by the Art Gallery of NSW for Australian portraiture. Coffs Harbour’s Regional Museum brings our history to life, with a collection of beautifully displayed objects and artefacts, each holding a significance and connection to the area. Initiated by the Coffs Harbour and District Historical Society in 1980, the collection came under the ownership of Coffs Harbour City Council in 2005, in order to preserve it for the whole community. The collection is now housed in the charmingly-restored former Courthouse and Police Station at 215 Harbour Drive. Visitors can view the Museum’s fascinating

OPENING NIGHT IS ALWAYS A BUZZ AND ON THE FIRST SATURDAY OF EACH NEW EXHIBITION, THE GALLERY WELCOMES ART LOVERS FOR A FREE MORNING TEA AND THE OPPORTUNITY TO MEET THE EXHIBITING ARTIST/S. permanent collection through a number of specialist displays, including a detailed maritime display that includes rare lighthouse artefacts and objects tracing Coffs Harbour’s history to the earliest European contact. Coffs Harbour’s Aboriginal heritage is showcased through the history of the region’s Gumbaynggirr nation. Also featured is a tribute to Coffs Harbour’s war heroes, a focus on changing technologies, a unique nineteenth century clothing collection and much, much more. Quarterly temporary exhibitions offer an opportunity for an in-depth look into particular elements of Coffs Harbour’s history.

‘Picture Coffs Harbour’ is the Museum and Library Service’s impressive digital catalogue of historical photographs, available through the Library website. The images depict all aspects of life in our region from earliest settlement in the 1890s through to more recent years and offer a fascinating insight into the area’s growth and development over time. For anyone keen to get involved with life at both the gallery and the museum, there is the opportunity to become part of the highly valued volunteer team. All training is included, no previous experience is required and all are welcome. Call 02 6648 4000 for more information.

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Reilly ANNE REILLY’S POTTERY IS UNIQUE AND INTRIGUING. FOCUS SAT DOWN FOR A CUP OF HERBAL TEA TO TRY AND LEARN MORE ABOUT THE INSPIRATION BEHIND HER CREATIONS.

hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I have set up life and studio in Bellingen, just south of Coffs Harbour. I have always loved the North and Mid North Coast of NSW; it is certainly an idyllic place for pottery. Bellingen has a wonderful and varied community of artists and potters. Could you briefly describe how you became involved in visual arts? Pottery wasn’t something I had ever considered; I was more into textiles throughout school. I think I must have picked up someone else’s stray thought, and it stuck. I first learnt pottery in Melbourne at Carlton Arts Centre, where I got a good grounding in the technical aspects of potting. I eventually took it further by studying at Chisholm Institute Caulfield (now Monash), acquiring a Ceramic Design Degree. This course of study focused on design and covered ceramics, architectural ceramics and glass. I have gone the full spectrum from stoneware gas reduction at 1,300 °C down to art deco earthenware 1,100 °C. I then relocated to Seattle, USA, where I had a wonderful range of midfire 1,200 °C clays and glazes to choose from for functional forms. It was in Seattle that I delved into my sculptural side, working from the nude model and then

translating the forms into my own designs. and washbasins. Also, I’ll do rustic minimal Upon returning to Australia, I also form warriors to the abstracted nude with a returned to my gas kiln and reduction firings. strong gesture. Reduction is an atmosphere created by Where do you find inspiration? starving the kiln of oxygen. This atmosphere The sheer passion of immersing one’s hands develops the maroon reds in my glazes, which in clay stirs up the pool of imagination. The are totally delicious and a potter’s dream to exploration of forms, known and imagined, achieve. eventually develops into your own signature. As an artist, how would you describe your The fun of playing with glazes, splashing, style and approach to a subject? dipping, spraying, creates My main body of work is unexpected effects, which in functional. I use a small turn gives the artist their palette of glazes, including personal palette to create I love the my amazing red. I use a and express with. My e th unknown technique of glaze on inspiration thus comes t ha w abstraction of glaze. Greg Daly, a well from playing/doing/ e W . ts is already ex known potter in NSW, being. The more I y er ev al re see the is the guru for this become absorbed t n’ do I d an day, te technique. into the clay, that pe m co to h is w With the same few which the senses have with that .” glazes applied in different gathered and stored in order and thickness, I can the subconscious weave create many patterns and their way into my work. effects. Under fire, the glazes If you could live anywhere in intermingle, revealing more surprises. the world to experience a specific Can you briefly describe your current period of art, which would you project? choose and why? My sculptural works are made of clay I love the unknown - the abstraction of or course, but can also include fused and what already exists. We see the real every day, slumped glass and metal. I hand form a slab of and I don’t wish to compete with that. The clay, which exposes a movement or gesture to one place I would love to be in the world to be modelled into my own unique forms. My experience this sense is Barcelona. Gaudi’s current sculptural work is bird baths/fountains architecture is out of this world. It cuts

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through the linear of the manmade world and abstracts nature beyond its proportions. What artists have do you admire and draw influence from? I thank Tip Toland, Seattle, for her exquisite modelling of clay and imagination of expressing emotions through human form. I am in awe of Greg Daly’s exploration of glaze on glaze technique, and I’m still striving to develop more of my own. Paul Davis has shown me how to approach clay with full on energy and spontaneity, no delicate matter. What are your plans for the future? My themes seem clear now, so my future work will be a continuum of play exploring gestures and forms and abstracting them to my signature movement of sculpting. I want to steer away from realism as the obscure, I believe, touches the senses of the viewer to consider their perception.” I plan to continue playing with clay art as it is not a career to retire from, but a lifelong vocation. Where can people find out more about you and your art? I exhibit at Nexus Gallery, Bellingen, at the member’s show four times a year and look forward to two joint exhibitions - one late 2017 and one March 2018. I have works in the Yellow Shed in Bellingen. I also have classes once a week in Bellingen; for enquiries, call 0421 856 711. Thanks Anne. focus Special coffs coastEdition focus. 25 37

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PEACE TRAIN. FOR THE FIRST TIME IN COFFS HARBOUR, DARREN COGGAN PRESENTS HIS CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED PORTRAIT OF CAT STEVENS, PEACE TRAIN, FOR TWO PERFORMANCES AT THE JETTY THEATRE, SATURDAY, JULY 2 AT 2PM AND 8PM.

at Stevens defined a generation, with songs that the whole world sang along with. These timeless songs, including Moonshadow, Wild World, Peace Train, Where Do the Children Play, Father & Son, Morning Has Broken, First Cut Is The Deepest, and many more, continue to unite the world, bringing people together in the name of love and peace.

Coffs Harbour, and its intimate nature is so perfect for this show. Our audiences obviously come expecting to hear those timeless songs of Cat Stevens, but I think they walk away with so much more, a real insight and understanding of who he was. It’s a very positive, uplifting show, with the underlying theme being that we all have the ability to make changes in our lives should we not be content,” commented Darren.

Peace Train is a night of music and story-telling which will strike a chord deep inside the heart of anyone who longs for something more, a journey back in time, recreating the sights and sounds, seeking out the man in the music and telling the story behind the songs. Hear twenty-five hits sung with remarkable authenticity by one of Australia’s most exciting artists. Darren Coggan takes the audience on a ride of discovery, back through the joys and the sorrows, the triumphs and the pain, in a celebration of the life of one of the most inspiring and prolific singer songwriters of our time, Cat Stevens.

Back in the ‘70s, Cat Stevens was the ultimate rock star. Talented, charismatic, with a seemingly endless succession of beautiful melodies streaming from his imagination, the international singing star had everything. He sold more than 60 million albums, earned enough money to last several lifetimes, and enjoyed all the trappings of fame. But he wanted more out of life. So at the height of his career he shocked the world by taking his last bow. The music stopped, and Cat Stevens was no more.

“I’ve only just discovered the Jetty Theatre in

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“We take our audience on that same journey of self-discovery that Cat went on and try to answer the question as to why did he leave

@darrencoggan

“ I’VE ONLY JUST DISCOVERED THE JETTY THEATRE IN COFFS HARBOUR, AND ITS INTIMATE NATURE IS SO PERFECT FOR THIS SHOW. ” the music industry? I had the privilege of being invited to London to meet with the great Cat Stevens in 2007, and I heard first hand some of the many anecdotes and stories that we share with the audience throughout the performance. Cat’s timeless songs and his messages of peace, tolerance and understanding are just as important in our world today as when they were first written - perhaps even more so,” said Darren. Since its debut performance in Darren’s hometown of Wagga Wagga at the Civic Theatre back in 2008, Darren Coggan’s Peace Train has gone on to inspire many others, playing to standing ovations in the most prestigious venues

in Australia, including The Sydney Opera House. Get on board the Peace Train as Darren Coggan traces the path of a man who never stopped wondering about how to make the world a better place.

the plug! Jetty Theatre Coffs Harbour. Saturday, July 2, 2pm & 8pm. www.jettytheatre.com 6652 8088. www.peacetrain.com.au

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Howard Hinton Collection | NERAM

Esther Paterson, The Yellow Gloves (also known as Portrait of Betty Paterson), 1938, Oil on cardboard, Gift of Howard Hinton 1939.

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C R E A T E ! TIME HAS FLOWN OVER THE LAST TWO AND A HALF YEARS! GO CREATE! NEW ENGLAND HAS GROWN FROM A SEED OF AN IDEA TO A FLOURISHING ENTERPRISE BRANCHING OUT IN MANY UNEXPECTED DIRECTIONS. WE NOW HAVE STUDENTS WHO RETURN MONTH AFTER MONTH FOR THEIR CREATIVE FIX, CHOOSING FROM A WIDE CHOICE OF INSPIRING SKILLS.

e have students who come to meet like-minded people, having recently moved to the area, and then there are students who are choosing to spend time with friends from afar while enjoying the studio atmosphere and a break from the daily grind. All learn new skills and make new friends.

studio for an afternoon. We showcase our tutors with displays and demonstrations, while visitors enjoy local cheese with matching teas. Last year we had a working 3D printer that had been designed and built by a Uralla local. Cathy Moon, originally from Armidale, filled our outdoor space with pots of bubbling dyes and Shibori dyed silks. This year on the 22nd October we will be showcasing Sunhill Dairy Goat cheese paired with yummy teas.

Jan, Kath and Vicki feel privileged to share A highlight for us at Go Create! is participation their space with passionate tutors who are in the Seasons of New England generous with their skills and Market Day in Uralla annually. experience. Tutors have We have been overwhelmed included local favourites by the enthusiastic such as Judy Wilford support for our creative teaching embroidery, A highlight for endeavours. photographer Terry ! te us at G o Crea Cooke and Jan Clark in We are constantly is participation ew initially teaching fabric updating our website, the Seasons of N ay tD manipulation and now Facebook, and England Marke .” ly including drawing due Instagram sites with in Uralla annual to demand. International images and videos of tutors have visited, such as past workshops providing Patricia Baldwin Seggebruch insight into the studio (USA) for encaustics and Liz classes. If you have wondered Maidment from France for creative what we do at Go Create! there embroidery. Classes for 2017/18 will include is nothing like a picture to answer the contemporary basketry, paper making, question. leather bags, indigo dyeing, solar etching Not only has our presence on social media and more. grown substantially, but our team has grown

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The studio is now in demand for Guild weekends, group gatherings and tourist stops. Groups have booked their tutor of preference, enjoyed good food, camaraderie and accommodation on site. The Tamworth Embroiderers Guild had a wonderful weekend with a specially organised workshop with Judy Wilford from Armidale. Our “Teas and Cheese Tasting” events have been very successful and are now a yearly occurrence, attracting over 100 people to the

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TA M WO RT H R E G I O N A L GA L L E RY Emporium presents a revealing look at the phenomenal rise of the department store, the advent of ready-to-wear clothing and the proliferation of image-based advertising as an art form during the 20th century. The exhibition focuses on items collected before its closure from one of Albury’s longest-running department stores - S.M. Abikhair’s - including more than 40 mid-century in-store fashion posters, along with women’s fashion accessories and foundation garments, original shop mannequins, and the minutiae of millinery, menswear and haberdashery. The store had three entries, a main entrance plus one each for men and women, which navigated patrons to appropriate sections of the store. As it was considered inappropriate for men to see, let alone purchase, women’s unmentionables, the entry for men took them through sporting goods

This exhibition reflects the lifestyle and climate of the 1950s and the fashions aspired to by Australian women. The beauty myth of the idealised woman stretched far from the bustle of the cities to the country streets of Albury or Tamworth. In the same vein as the Mad Men television series, this exhibition investigates the role of women from their dress and their hobbies, to their work in the home and the messages portrayed in the 1950s-era marketing materials. Curated by Bridget Guthrie, Gallery Director, Emporium is an accessible exhibition that connects to the everyday and our consumer heritage. On exhibition from 21 May to 2 July at the Tamworth Regional Gallery.

21 May to 2 July 2016

Emporium

An Albury City Touring Exhibition

2014 Jacaranda Acquisitive Drawing Award A Grafton Regional Gallery Touring Exhibition

11 June to 6 August 2016 Wendy Sharpe Backstage Burlesque with Venetian Mask 2013 (acquired 2014 JADA). Grafton Regional Gallery Collection. Copyright of the artist

Back to Burra Bee Dee Warwick Keen

too. We have welcomed Erica Peterson to Go Create! and she will be assisting us in preparation for workshops as our student numbers grow. As formal art classes in the education system decline, it is obvious that people and their communities still need to learn creative skills and to express themselves creatively. Go Create! New England is dedicated to help answer that need. And have a lot of fun on the way.

and men’s supplies. Women were directed past the women’s, children’s and household supplies counters before reaching the register.

8 July to 27 August 2016 Warwick Keen, Sacred Place 2013, Digital Print on Art Rag photographic paper, 90cm X 60 cm. 466 Peel Tamworth, Open Tue - Fri 10am - 5pm, Sat 10am - 4pm. Closed Sunday & Public Holidays. P: 02 6767 5248, e: gallery@tamworth.nsw.gov.au www.tamworthregionalgallery.com.au www.facebook.com/tamworthregionalgallery

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TA K E A V I E W O F T H E L A N D S C A P E AT N E R A M

A RT I N A L L F O R M S Bursting at the seams with artists and art, it’s evident Walcha is an avid supporter of culture and oozes the OOMPH it takes to embrace such appreciations. Whether it’s the initiative and ongoing development of the Open Air Gallery, an ever-growing permanent gallery, currently consisting of nearly 50 artworks and sculptures - posing as guardians of the town - greeting you at every entrance, enhancing the stunning streetscape and lining either side of the Apsley River upon her levee banks; OR, the galleries that complement this iconic asset. The Walcha Gallery of Art exhibits fine and contemporary art, often showcasing prominent local artists, many who are renowned for their work far beyond the local region. And then there’s the more recent addition of a Steam Punk gallery, Antipodean Tynker, exhibiting fascinating black-smithery,

jewellery and bespoke motorbikes that would remind you of, if not rival, the ones seen in Mad Max. The thriving cultural buck doesn’t stop there; events such as Opera at Langford, and Voci Stupende attracting large crowds; shops such as Walcha Handmade, a fresh, vibrant retail outlet for local creatives also boasting a kids’ craft corner that is available to everyone and a studio where courses are often run. The Creative Craft Centre sells local woodwork and knitwear, and the Antique Junque shop is a work of art in itself - an absolute must see for anyone passing through. Walcha has a fabulous food culture, abundant with wonderful pub-grub and cafés who know how to tantalise your tastebuds and make a great coffee!

In 1921, the artist Elioth Gruner passed through the New England region on his way north, setting up his easel and painting the landscape as he went and reputedly staying with farmers and graziers in return for giving them an artwork to keep. Later in the 1930s, he returned to the region and obviously travelled along the Waterfall Way, because a series of gorgeous landscapes he painted around Bellingen are now in the Howard Hinton Collection at the New England Regional Art Museum. A selection of these local landscapes will feature in the new exhibition, Views of Landscape, which open at NERAM in June and provides visitors with a glimpse of the rich selection of paintings to be found in the museum’s collections. “The Howard Hinton Collection was originally assembled as a teaching collection, and Hinton wanted to make sure that it included all of the key painting themes of his era,” said Robert Heather, NERAM Director. “Looking through

our collection, we have wonderful examples of portraits, still life, nudes, landscapes and seascapes to choose from for our exhibitions. “The exhibition explores the way in which artists’ views of the landscape have evolved from the traditional English countryside of nineteenth century painter Samuel Palmer, through to the contemporary interventions of Christo around Sydney Harbour in the late 1960s and the work of contemporary urban artists today such as George Gittoes. “This exhibition will include works by leading Australian artists including Arthur Streeton, Elioth Gruner, Adrien Feint, Margaret Olley, Lloyd Rees and many others, that will enable our visitors to experience a range of quality landscape painting, prints and drawings right here in Armidale.” Views of Landscape will be open at New England Regional Art Museum from 24 June until 18 September 2016. Further information: www.neram.com.au

Views of Landscape

Art in all forms

Walcha

A unique perspective on the collections of the New England Regional Art Museum Arthur Streeton – Elioth Gruner – Lloyd Rees – Margaret Olley – Cressida Campbell – Adrien Feint and others

24 June -18 Sept 2016

New England Regional Art Museum Discover Walcha’s art, fine food, natural wonders and rich cultural heritage.

neram.com.au 106-114 Kentucky St ARMIDALE NSW 2350 Open 10am – 4 pm Tuesday – Sunday

walchansw.com.au • 02 6774 2460 Elioth Gruner, Winter afternoon, Bellingen 1937, oil on canvas, Gift of Howard Hinton 1938

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The Marriage of Figaro Mozart

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K E L L Y

ARMIDALE BORN AND BRED KELLY LOVE WAS ALWAYS CREATIVE FROM A YOUNG AGE. AFTER A MOVE TO JAPAN WORKING WITH A CLOTHING DESIGNER, KELLY RETURNED TO SYDNEY TO STUDY FASHION DESIGN AND NOW HAS HER OWN LABEL AND IS LIVING HER DREAM IN LONDON.

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I WORKED FOR A COUTURE HOUSE WHEN I FINISHED STUDYING, AND THIS REALLY INFLUENCED MY DECISION TO FOCUS ON BEAUTIFUL FABRICS AND REALLY HIGH QUALITY. I BELIEVE THAT THE INSIDE OF A GARMENT SHOULD BE JUST AS BEAUTIFUL AS THE OUTSIDE.”

here are you originally from; tell us about your up bringing? I was born in Armidale and remember spending a lot of time outdoors with other kids in the neighbourhood, which was one of the beauties of living in the countryside. I had a wonderful group of girlfriends that I spent so much time with, as we all lived quite close by, and I still have a close bond with all of them. My parents brought me up with a very strong work ethic. They both worked really hard for us, and it was definitely them that inspired me to eventually start my own business. My dad and brother, Greg and Ben Love, run Armidale Windscreens & Automotive along with New England Rods Customs, and my mum, Marianne Love, works for The Benevolent Society.

I attended Armidale High School, which completely fell in love with the whole process was also the school my dad, sister and of creating something unique. brother attended. When I finished high What took you to the UK? school, I left Armidale to go to university I knew I wanted to start my own label, before moving to Japan, and there is no better then Sydney and later place to do this than London, which is where I London. I have Paris on IT WASN’T have been based for the my doorstep, where REALLY UNTIL past eight years. I have spent a lot of I MOVED TO JAPAN What do you miss most time showcasing the AND WORKED about Armidale? collections, and the WITH A CLOTHING My family and friends. main market that I sell DESIGNER THAT When did your interest into is Europe. I also I KNEW IT WAS in design first begin? love that I can travel WHAT I WANTED TO I was always creative to so many different PURSUE.” from a young age places really easily, and and loved art, textiles, London in itself is such a photography and English at school. It wasn’t beautiful city with so much energy. really until I moved to Japan and worked Tell us about your designs? with a clothing designer that I knew it I specialise in hand drawn prints on was what I wanted to pursue. I returned silks and hand knitted wools and linen. I to Sydney to study fashion design and worked for a couture house when I finished

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studying, and this really influenced my decision to focus on beautiful fabrics and really high quality. I believe that the inside of a garment should be just as beautiful as the outside. My designs are feminine, but with a contemporary edge, and the label is now stocked in stores throughout the UK, Europe, US, Canada, China and Japan. How can people view and purchase your clothing? You can find a list of stockists on my website at www.kellylove.com and I also have an online store that ships worldwide. Plans for the future? My stockist list is growing each season, and I’m about to start working with an agent to extend the label into Germany, Austria and Switzerland. I’ll also be working on a couple of collaborations with well-known brands, which you’ll soon see details of on my Instagram at kelly_love_com Thanks Kelly.

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C O U N T RY A RT E S CA P E S COUNTRY ART ESCAPES IS THE REGIONAL ART TRAIL IN THE NEW ENGLAND NORTH WEST OF NSW.

ince being launched in 2012, Country Art Escapes has gone from strength to strength, with around 60 subscribers on the trail; it features individual artists, arts and cultural venues across the region from Tenterfield in the north to Quirindi in the south and west to Moree and Narrabri. Anyone visiting the area can include at least one stop at one of the venues. Whether you are interested in arts, history or Aboriginal culture, there are a diverse range of wonderful and welcoming venues on the trail, some with overnight stays, some with tempting treats to sample. There are galleries, theatres, museums and historic houses, art studios and residencies and gallery/theatre cafés, to name a few. Last year Arts North West, the programme manager of Country Art Escapes, partnered with the website-based Kamilaroi Highway route for inclusion on the art trail and with our sister regional arts development organisation, Outback Arts, whose gallery is now also listed on the trail. Both additions extend this innova-

tive art trail into the neighbouring regions. How do you find out more about Country Art Escapes? Colour brochures are available in all of the region’s visitor information centres, there is a free iPhone app available for download from the Apple App Store (Country Art Escapes), and the beautiful user-friendly website provides detailed information about the attractions along the art trail. The website is designed to offer visitors to choose their destinations and add to a personalised online art trail with the ability to print a downloadable map with directions to each venue. Depending on time and taste, you can visit two or twenty! Catch a live show or a movie, visit an exhibition, try your hand at making jewellery, or ponder our history at one of the many volunteer-run museums, all with fascinating stories to tell. Armidale has many listings on Country Art Escapes, including artist studios where you can visit and talk to the artist about their practice and perhaps pick up an original work or two. There are several museums in the city, with

items as diverse as dinosaur bones and ancient world relics at the University of New England Museums. At the Museum of Printing you can view early models of printing presses, or at Saumarez Homestead, whole rooms that have been lovingly preserved as they would have been used a hundred years ago. Or perhaps a feast of visual art is called for at one of the several art galleries, many displaying the works of local artists, sculptors, photographers and potters. As Country Art Escapes embraces so many aspects of the New England North West’s rich

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cultural resources, it is a one stop portal to the array of arts and culture in the region. We encourage you to become a cultural tourist and enjoy the hospitality on offer at the venues on Country Art Escapes. Remember to give them your feedback; they will make you feel welcome and love to share the wealth of history, imagination and culture that is on offer in this wonderfully creative region. For more information on Country Art Escapes, please contact the Arts North West office on (02) 6732 4988 or go to the Country Art Escapes website: www.countryartescapes.com

FREE APP Search ‘Country Art Escapes’ Available for IPad and IPhone on the App Store SCAN the QR code to view the website directly

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THE NEW ENGLAND ART SOCIETY HAS BEEN WITH US FOR ALMOST 25 YEARS, SO WE VISITED THE ARMIDALE ART GALLERY AND SPOKE TO SOCIETY PRESIDENT, MALCOLM MCCLINTOCK.

i Malcolm. How did the New England Art Society begin? Well, we’ve been around for a while now; I’m told that the idea of a society came about back in the early ‘90s. Rick and Joy Joyce, who at that time owned the local picture framing business, invited a small group of community minded artists to a meeting. The society grew from there. In those days the society didn’t have a permanent gallery, so exhibitions were held wherever they could find a venue. Some of our members remember using an old hardware shed, a school gym and empty shops. I’m told that the effort to set up and dismantle exhibitions was huge, but there was no shortage of enthusiasm. Good fortune finally came along when a permanent gallery space at the old Armidale Teachers’ College was found. Ultimately, the college site proved to be out of the way, so the gallery moved closer in first to the Wicklow pub complex, and then to some small rooms near the present day gallery. In 2002, the Society’s nomadic existence ended when it moved to our present location upstairs in the Beardy St Central Mall. It’s certainly proved to be a wonderful space. We’ve been here for 14 years now. What does the Art Society do? Our society provides support to local and regional art practitioners in lots of ways. We operate the Armidale Art Gallery, where we showcase the creative works of painters, sculptors, photographers and others. Gallery sales help the artists. The society is not-for-profit, so we

depend on the hard work of our many loyal volunteers; all up, we have almost 300 members. The gallery is really the heart of our society and serves as a meeting place for members. With monthly exhibitions, workshops in life drawing and painting, two major annual art competitions, a photographic competition, and an annual weekend art retreat, the society has a full calendar. What does the gallery offer? The gallery building is well over 100 years old and has real charm. Of course, the society has done an enormous amount of work to bring the rooms up to today’s professional standard. At a recent exhibition, we had room to hang 180 artworks. With four large rooms, we have no problem hosting three to four separate exhibitions at the same time. Most months bring two or three new exhibitions. Opening nights are always enjoyable; everyone is welcome, and it’s an opportunity to meet the artists. The gallery is open weekdays and Saturday mornings at no charge. We invite the community to climb the stairs and enjoy some of the latest works produced by our artists. There’s no problem finding quality works to suit the collector, the decorator, the tourist seeking a memento, or simply a gift, all at reasonable prices. Do any humorous events come to mind? Oh yes, just a couple. You see, oil paints take time to dry. When one large piece came in after being transported on an open vehicle, to the artist’s horror it had acquired a very unusual texture during transpor-

tation. There, embedded in the surface, was the swarm of grasshoppers the artist had just driven through. Fortunately, we were able to extract most of the offenders. On another occasion, an over confident entrant to one of our art prize competitions successfully raised a chuckle amongst our packers; in place of an entry fee was a note asking that the fee be taken out of their future prize money. It’s a shame they weren’t awarded a prize. Tell us about your next major event. You’ll be pleased to know, that the exhibition for DAPHNE YOUNG WATERCOLOUR ART PRIZE 2016 opens this July. This prestigious art prize is one of only a few competitions solely for watercolour and brings together some of the most impressive art produced over the last year. Entries from across the New England and beyond have filled the gallery, creating an outstanding exhibition that celebrates the creativity of our region’s artists. The art prize is named in honour of Daphne Young. Daphne was part of the New England arts community in the 1990s and worked hard to give watercolour the prominence she felt it deserved. Many of our local artists were inspired by her. Sponsorship by community minded businesses is so important. Without their support, it would be impossible to run this and our other art prizes. The official opening is at 6pm Saturday 2nd July in the Armidale Art Gallery, upstairs in the Beardy St Central Mall. All are welcome; meet the artists, drinks and nibbles provided. The exhibition continues to the 22nd July. Thanks Malcolm. focus new Special englandEdition focus. 35 21

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D U Z Z Y BASED OUT OF AUSTRALIA’S WOOL GROWING HEARTLAND, ARMIDALE, THE CREATORS OF MOZ & DUZZY, MICHELLE BOOKALLIL AND TRACY WRIGHT, ARE WELL-VERSED WHEN IT COMES TO NATURAL FIBRES.

ith Michelle hailing from the rich plains of Moree, and Tracy the agricultural hub of Narrabri, the rural environment and community provides the inspiration and philosophy behind the brand’s natural and minimalist ethos. Both passionate about quality textiles, vibrant colours and wearable fashion, Michelle and Tracy’s friendship has naturally evolved into the creative collaboration that is Moz & Duzzy. For Michelle Bookallil (nee Carrigan), it seems fashion and growing up with natural fibres is in the blood. Michelle’s parents, Anne-Marie and Eric, have nurtured Merino sheep, producing fine wool at Tyrone Merino Stud, Gurley. The family has a strong heritage of five generations in wool. Her mother, Anne-Marie Carrigan, owned one of regional NSW’s premier boutiques, Anne-Marie’s Boutique, for nearly 30 years. Michelle grew up surrounded by Australia’s most prominent designers, such as Lisa Ho, Jill Fitzsimon and Trent Nathan.

The maternity label saw Tracy develop a keen interest in pattern making and cemented her determination on creating garments which flatter women of all shapes. The combination of beautiful fabrics and well cut garments is something she is passionate about. With her mother a highly regarded dressmaker, having taught her the skills of sewing and knitting from a young age, Tracy’s path was destined for the creative arts too. This qualified teacher has spent the past eight years sharing her love and knowledge whilst teaching Textiles and Designs at a local Armidale school. With five daughters between them, positive self-image is another cause close to heart, with Michelle and Tracy both passionate advocates for the female form.

Secondary education and university in Sydney enabled Michelle to become heavily involved in the purchase of stock and liaising amongst designers with Anne-Marie, and her career expanded into staff and stock management for David Jones and Next in London.

They are particularly aware of the potential for Moz & Duzzy to become a vehicle to reduce the stigma surrounding the female body size. Michelle’s strong background in Educational Psychology, and Tracy’s experience in educating young women, is advantageous.

These retail roots developed Michelle’s flair for colour and design that ultimately influenced her future path into the visual arts.

The elegant and complex Dragonfly has been adopted as the brand’s “spirit being”. In a unique approach to sizing, Michelle has designed a visual representation of Moz & Duzzy’s garment proportions, with the dragonfly appearing as differing colours on each size. This exclusive approach has been proudly designed by the brand to help re-focus fashion away from the traditional size chart and society’s expectations and pressure that it can conjure.

Also a trained teacher, Michelle is heavily involved in the New England’s art culture and taught at The University of New England for 12 years. A strong advocate for regional artists, Michelle has helped hand curate the New England Regional Art Museum’s renowned Packsaddle Exhibition; a quality showcase of Australia’s finest artists, for the past 15 years. Tracy Wright, a talented seamstress with a strong background in fabrics, design and manufacturing, has been involved in the creation of garments, including many bridal gowns, for almost 25 years. A “pocket money” venture creating outfits for her friends whilst a student of the University of New England was the start of Tracy’s long career in dressmaking. Several years working in the cotton industry in 36 new focus Specialfocus. Edition 22 england

Wee Waa contributed to a deeper appreciation and insight into the processing side of the industry, her talents and knowledge culminating into a successful maternity wear label, Glow Maternity Wear and dressmaking shop, Altered Stitches, in Armidale.

Moz & Duzzy is dedicated to promoting the Australian textile and fashion industry, specifically through the use of natural fibres. They believe women should feel fabulous every day through their clothing choices, from the more casual weekend wear, week day work and evening garments. With quality garments made to last, Michelle and Tracy will continue to search for inspiration across the beautiful Australian landscapes and beyond.

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b e y o n d COMMUNITY ARTS ORGANISATION BEYOND EMPATHY IS BRINGING “MAVENS” TO ARMIDALE TO WORK WITH SOME OF THE REGION’S LOCAL ABORIGINAL ARTISTS.

avens are experts in their fields established artists who want to share their knowledge and experiences. For BE, its mavens are taking on mentoring roles and producing some acclaimed results. Sydney duo Spit Syndicate (Nick Lupi and Jimmy Nice) are one of Australia's most exciting, forward-thinking Hip Hop acts. Joined by indigenous singer Thelma Plum, they have been working with Nate Weatherall and Isaac Tanikomave and Liana Simmions aka Sneaky Ell, alongside other young people in Armidale, to record the track TRY. The video produced by Brendan Blacklock and Nick Waterman scored 33,600 views and reached over 118,858 people on social media. For Isaac to work with these accomplished artists, it was a culmination of everything he has learnt over the past few years. The amazing track they created has catapulted his skills to a new level, as the young people sing, “We got to try, giving it my all, the time has come for us to work together”. A maven can be anyone with a deep understanding of their field, which is especially true of David Leha from the Kamilaroi nation and Tonga. Best known as Radical Son, David’s diverse range of singing and song-writing experiences includes working with Archie Roach, the Australian Opera and the lead role of Pemulwuy in I am Eora for the Sydney Festival. From Hip Hop roots to soulful social statements, David’s

music, both potent and sublime, conjures uncompromising visions of where we’ve come from and what could be, from troubled past to songs of humility and healing. “Mum is a Kamilaroi woman, and I was raised by her, with my younger brother, pretty much on the road,” says the Sydney-born artist, whose family originates from Tamworth. David brings his healing approach to his mentoring of Leetona Pitt, an emerging singer in Armidale, who is exploring song across generations with her family. Song signifies a new pathway for Leetona, as she now shares the stage with her father Denis Pitt, a well-known local artist from Inverell. Another fertile collaboration is for the dancers Carmel Vale and Steve Quinlan, who have been travelling to Sydney to do workshops with the Bangarra Dance Theatre, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisation widely acclaimed for its powerful dancing and theatrical voice. The intensive workshops were a first for both BE and Bangarra, with Carmel and Steve taking their process to a new level, learning how to teach and choreograph

novice dancers. This experience means they’re now mavens themselves, passing on their insights and lessons to the next generation. BE is based in Armidale and has been working with the region’s young people since its inception in 2004. Its projects over the past 12 years has earned the company many awards for its innovative approach to artistic endeavours. BE’s feature film, Rites of Passage, won the Special Jury Prize at the prestigious Warsaw Film Festival, the Just One Less project aimed at binge drinking in Armidale won the 2011 Health Promotion and the Arts Award for Excellence, and the Ngwarra project that focuses on making belly casts for young pregnant women won the 2010 Arts and Health in Rural and Regional Australia Award for Excellence. Malcolm Gladwell, the US author who originated the “maven” term, says, “If you want to bring a fundamental change in people's belief and behaviour ... you need to create a community around them, where those new beliefs can be practiced and expressed and nurtured.” focus Special Edition 37 new england focus. 23

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N ecom FA N TA S T I C O P P O RT U N I T Y F O R

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G O C R E AT E Go Create! New England is a workshop collective formed by three creatives: Jan Clark, Vicki Taylor and Kath Caddy. Established in 2013, Go Create New England brings like-minded people together in the beautiful setting of The Studio on Vicki’s farm to learn, create and be inspired through mainly weekend workshops. Many talented tutors, local Australian and from around the world, come to teach their diverse skills year round. The workshops range from photography to shoe making and include many textile skills, such as eco-dyeing, shibori, art quilting, bobbin lace making, felting and weaving. The Go Create Studio sits in the picturesque surrounding of the New England countryside on Vicki and Jon Taylor’s sheep farm, which has been in the Taylor family for generations. Renowned for their sustainable farming practices, the Taylors have created a tree covered and scenic environment which is bound to inspire the budding or expert artist. For anyone travelling from afar, Go Create! offers comfortable accommodation and delicious meals.

“THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR MAKING SUCH AN OPPORTUNITY POSSIBLE FOR THE YOUNG SINGERS OF ARMIDALE! OUR SON IS SO THRILLED AND TALKS OF LITTLE ELSE” – PARENT OF CHORISTER. THE NEW ENGLAND CONSERVATORIUM’S PRESENTATION OF OPERA AUSTRALIA’S TOURING PRODUCTION OF THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO AT LAZENBY HALL ON 11 AUGUST PROMISES TO BE THE HIGHLIGHT IN EVERYONE’S MUSIC DIARY FOR 2016.

pera Australia visits Armidale only every second year for an exclusive onenight-only performance, and this year Mozart’s comic masterpiece will be a super-special night out, suitable for the whole family. For 24 talented young singers from NECOM’s choral programme, it will be the night of their lives. As the Children’s Chorus they will be sharing the spotlight with some of Australia’s finest opera singers when they join the cast to perform onstage in The Marriage of Figaro. The Children’s Chorus initiative, brainchild of Opera Australia’s Artistic Director Lyndon Terracini, gives children the chance to learn about opera in the best possible way - by performing it alongside professionals. This is an incredible introduction to opera for NECOM’s choristers from Cantilena and New England Singers. This is not the first time NECOM choristers have performed with Opera Australia. After being part of The Magic Flute Children’s Chorus in Armidale in 2014, talented chorus member Christopher Tall went on to successfully audition for the Opera Australia’s Children’s Chorus and has since performed in many OA productions at the Sydney Opera House.

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Congratulations to the choristers in the 2016 Children’s Chorus:

part singing, where they quickly learned one of the choruses from The Marriage of Figaro; solo singing, where each child performed a song of their own choice, allowing them to show off their individual vocal abilities; and stagecraft.

Mia Baivucago, Leila Bejaoui, Felix Bowles, Nina Breckenridge, Delphi Collins, Pip Constable, Gabrielle Cotterell, Chloe Davison, Harriet Mozart’s The Marriage Eastment, Piyumi of Figaro is set over Ekanayake, Eloise the events of a Gooch, Lily single day. Telling Graham, Meg the story of For 24 talented Lawry, Lily young singers two servants, McCarthy, William choral from NECOM’s Figaro and Mackson, Veronica ramme, it will be og pr Susanna, who Marshall, Heidi r lives . ” the night of thei are attempting Martin, Naomi to get married Martin, Alissa despite the efforts Moloney, Jasper of their employer, O’Neil, Sophia Count Almaviva, who Smart, India Smith, Aiden is desperately in love with Swick, Kaylee Swick and Maddie Susanna and will do everything in Sim. his power to foil their plans. The children were selected after a Filled with moments of hilarity, drama, lengthy audition process from New danger, and romance, The Marriage of England Conservatorium’s Cantilena Figaro has been a mainstay of popular Choir and New England Singers. The opera all over the world for centuries. Children’s Chorus is an extension

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programme for NECOM’s gifted and talented choristers to enhance their audition and performance skills. This was the first time for many of the choristers to experience an audition, and all of them were outstanding. The children were auditioned in three areas - choral

The Marriage of Figaro will be presented by NECOM for one night only on Thursday 11 August at Lazenby Hall, University of New England at 7:30pm. Tickets are on sale now at http:// www.trybooking.com/LBCU Information Tel: 6788 2137.

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T r i o If you’re from the New England, you probably know one of these likely suspects, Tony, Ash and Steve from the ASH HALL TRIO. FOCUS delves into the minds of these creative geniuses to find out what makes them tick, tock, rock and/or roll. We talk with Ash about all that is the glorious melting pot of sounds - The Ash Hall Trio …

nlike Ben Folds Five, who are actually a trio, the Ash Hall Trio are true to the “trio” title - a band of three! Ash, please introduce the band’s members to us. There are three members in our band! Ash Hall - trumpet, Steve Thorneycroft guitar, and Tony Elder - vocals. We all come from varied musical backgrounds; however, what we share in this group is something very special and unique. What we are doing is exploring standard material; however, we approach the songs in fresh and new ways. We hold respect for tradition and the great songbook, yet through creativity and improvisation we explore and push boundaries. This can be risky and may not always go to plan, but the results are always interesting and exciting for the audience and us. The band’s name is currently Ash Hall Trio, but stay tuned, as it may be renamed the Tony Elder or Steve Thorneycroft Trio! Genre - can you define yourselves? Describe your performances? There is no denying there is a heavy jazz influence in what we do, but our music is a melting pot from all three members’ pasts and influences, which creates our unique sound. We have played a variety of gigs, from festivals to weddings and everything in between, and have always been very well supported by both local venues and the public. Working as the Ash Hall Trio has taken the trio as far

north as Cairns and recently as far south especially at weddings, where emotions as Melbourne.Due to the freedom of are running hot. There is no guarantee in improvisational music, each gig is different the life of a muso, and flexibility and an and special, and we have shared many open heart and mind are essential. We amazing musical moments. We often are very proud to be offering something perform in restaurants and local venues, different and are looking forward to more providing great ambience and an exciting musical exploration. We feel audiences atmosphere should the moment and are looking for something unique and audience take us there. different and thrive on watching a A very special longrisky creative process unwind term supporter of the in front of them. Ash Hall Trio has, Where can our There is no is e for the past three readers see your er th g denyin ce en flu years, hired us next upcoming in zz a heavy ja r ou t bu , do to perform at gigs? e w t in wha pot g tin el m a his house on Well, that’s an is ic mus embers’ m e re th l al special occasions. easy one; find us om fr ces, Intimate gigs at the fantastic pasts and influen r which creates ou such as these are a Red Grapevine ” d. un so ue uniq special gift to both Restaurant from the audience and us. 8pm on the 10th We often reflect how June, 1st July and the compatible we are as a trio, 5th August. and realise that what we have is To book a table, call the Red very special and unique. All three of Grapevine on (02) 6772 2822! us have great respect for each other Can readers hire a fine trio like and this trio works so well due to us yourselves? all having open minds and open ears. We Can they ever! We cater to all sorts of are all great friends outside of the trio and events. If you are planning a wedding, work in different line-ups together and celebration, anniversary, product launch, with other musicians, so our histories go we’d love to add the required ambience to back 20 + years! the occasion. If you couldn’t be successful musicians Give us a call on (02) 6696 3530; we’ll any more, what would you be doing? be happy to adorn you event with our Crying! musical stylings. Tell us about any funny disasters that Thanks for your time, Ash; we look occurred at one of your gigs. forward to your next gig! There are always funny moments,

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LANDSCAPE ARTISTS EMILY SIMSON AND KERRY GULLIVER ARE THE NEXT EXHIBITORS AT GALLERY 126, COMMENCING FRIDAY 3RD JUNE. E M I L Y

S I M S O N

ow long have you lived in this light to the sundrenched contrast of midday, or area? rolling clouds making dark backdrops for the I have lived in Armidale for nine white trunked trees. months. I am enjoying this friendly Other than your artworks, what are your town with so many creative opportunities. other interests? Describe the type of artwork you I like to catch new and retrospective specialise in. art exhibitions wherever I am, I use a lot of different supporting my children’s mediums to create artworks. sporting interests, and ch et sk a I had Over the last three years getting out to enjoy of ll fu ok bo I have used painting rge la a the many natural areas d an gs in draw and relief printmaking os ot ph of around the country. r be m nu anging to play with colour What can people capturing the ch om and bold shapes in the expect to see at your light , shadows fr and the subjects of birds, dogs moving clouds exhibition at Gallery of trees and trees. Experimenting unique colours 126? there. ” with collage and texture to A collection of landscape make printmaking plates and paintings, acrylic on board. monotypes, painting with acrylic After spending a weekend in Hill paint on canvas and board are my End with two artist friends touring preferred methods for landscape, making the surrounding bushland, I had a sketch the most of colour. book full of drawings and a large number of Where do you get your inspiration from? photos capturing the changing light, shadows Walking and driving through the landscape from moving clouds and the unique colours of and bushland is a constant inspiration for me. trees there. So this exhibition follows some of I’m always looking at the changing colours of those first impressions of the Hill End landscape, the day and seasons and the play of shadows on with an emphasis on light through the trees and the tree trunks - observing the changes to the shadows in the landscape. landscape throughout the day, from soft early Thanks Emily.

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K E R R Y

G U L L I V E R

ow long have you lived in the area? I grew up in the New England area (Armidale and Tamworth) but have spent a good part of my life in Sydney, moving there to attend art school. The choice to move back to Armidale was prompted by the desire to be in a more natural setting closer to nature, and away from the stresses of city life. I live on a bush block on the outskirts of Armidale, where I have been for 17 years. Describe the type of artwork you specialise in? The Australian bush is so evocative, with its many moods and rhythms, and changing light. I am principally a landscape painter, with some of my work bordering on the sculptural. I am at present working on a series of landscapes which depict natural features in a highly stylised manner, where plant forms, mountains etc. are suggested rather than realistic. I work on canvas and board, but prefer board, as it is easier to scrape back and gouge into the various paint layers. Where do you get your inspiration from? One can’t help but be inspired by living in a natural setting, as the land is constantly changing and evolving. I would hope my work reflects something of this geological and biological history, or at least gives some inkling

of the existence of those forces that are at work shaping our continent. I aim to re-create the sensation of being in the landscape, being a part of it, rather than a separate observer. I feel many people have a strong desire to reconnect to the landscape, perhaps to fulfil some sort of spiritual need. Some of the artists who have influenced me are John Glover, Fred Williams, Ginger Riley, Idris Murphy, William Turner, Joan Miro, Paul Klee, Henri Rousseau and Kasimir Malevich. Other than your artworks, what are your other interests? I teach art to various groups and get a lot of satisfaction from that. And of course, I visit as many galleries as I can and will travel to a city to see an exhibition of an artist that I especially like, such as the Fred Williams Retrospective Infinite Horizons in Canberra in 2011, which was sensational. I find gardening very therapeutic and have planted a lot of trees on my block. When is your exhibition at Gallery 126, and what can people expect to see? The opening night is Friday 3rd June, 5pm to 7pm, and the exhibition goes to Saturday 2nd July 2016. I am exhibiting with Emily Simson, who is also a landscape painter. I am showing several large works on canvas which are semi representational with a lot of strong colour and texture; and several semi relief works on board. Thanks Kerry.