Arts & Culture

Our area’s natural beauty and idyllic lifestyle have attracted an impressive variety of artists, makers and creators from a variety of artistic backgrounds. The region’s indigenous artists share their knowledge of this land through their paintings, songs and dances and you will spot public art that strengthens our connection with indigenous culture throughout the area. Nestled in our valleys and perched atop our hills there are many private creative studios including those of internationally acclaimed locals Jenny Kitchener and Ross Tamlin. In May 2021, the inaugural Kyogle Writer’s Festival will welcome literature lovers from far and wide with workshops, panel discussions and book-themed events. The area is home to a bevy of award-wining musicians, talented actors and film-makers, published writers, and acclaimed dancers creating new works or teaching their skills. There’s a plethora of painters and potters whose work you will find at local galleries and art exhibitions, as well as available for purchase in local venues, cafes and shops. Wander past a local hall and you may hear Kyogle’s Semitones choir rehearsing, while the local theatre group prepares for its next show and the dance school limbers up. Creative workshops and events are often held at local community halls, private studios and at the Roxy Gallery and The Business Hive in Kyogle. For more information check out www.kyogle.nsw.gov.au/events

This page images from top: ‘Goanna’ by Wahlubal artist Joe Walker. Bluegrass music duo Watling & Bates from Unumgar. Artist and printmaker Jenny Kitchener in her home studio. Opposite page images from top: Roxy Gallery. ‘View of Mount Lindesay’ by Christine Reid, Roxy Gallery interior.

When you’re visiting Kyogle and discovering its rich tapestry of natural wonders, a visit to the Council’s Roxy Gallery in the main street is a must. The gallery is located upstairs in the Kyogle Memorial Institute Hall with access via a lift in the new foyer entrance on SUmmerland Way, next to Clay Corner. The Roxy Gallery is a joint initiative between Kyogle Council and Kyogle and District Arts Group; it is run by volunteers and Council staff. The aim of the Roxy Gallery is to provide local and regional artists with a professionally managed exhibition space, and provide the community with a cultural space where they can engage in contemporary art, resources and information. The Roxy Gallery holds twelve ever-changing exhibitions a year of various media, that support and promote cultural diversity in the creative fields. It’s a great place to enjoy some peace and quiet, have a look around, or sit on the verandah and watch the world go by. With many of the artworks available to purchase, the next piece to take pride of place in your own collection could well be from here.

OPENING HOURS: WED TO SAT 10AM - 3PM & SUNDAY 10AM - 2PM. Entry is free with donations always welcome.