7th Annual City of Marion Community Art Exhibition
An exhibition of artworks in various media by Residents of the City of Marion
This year, the Annual Christmas Community Art exhibition has more artwork on show than ever before.
This exhibition has become a much anticipated event for all the creative residents of the Marion Council area, and approximately 130 participants will be dis-playing their work. They range from junior artists, hobbyists and ‘weekend dabblers’ through to professional practitioners.
The event is suported by the City of Marion, with no fee for the artists to enter. In addition, on the launch day, The Mayor Felicity-ann Lewis will present an award to the ‘Most Outstanding Artwork’, as well as several ‘Merit Awards’.
Artwork in all media is featured, including paintings, drawings, ceramics, photography, sculpture, textiles and basketry.
Most of the artwork will be for sale, at affordable prices.
An added benefit for buyers is that any work purchased may be collected before Christmas - perfect for gift giving over the Festive Season.
Normally, artwork stays on display for the duration of an exhibition.
Gallery M is a great venue for children and adults alike, especially during this holiday period. The varied subject matter of the artwork always makes it very interesting - younger visitors enjoy discovering the differences in the images on display.
Gallery M was open for the launch of the exhibition from 1 - 4pm, Sunday 7 December.
Hospitality was generously donated by Patritti Wines of Dover Gardens.
AWARDS:
Most Outstanding Artwork in any Media
'Strings' acrylic on canvas by Hugh Adamson
Merit Award
'Approaching Storm' conte & charcoal by Mary Cartwright
Merit Award
'Stadium' woven basket - Robinia stems by Lyn Coombe
People's Choice Award
'The Music of Trees' pen & ink by June Stephenson
7 - 30 November 2008
WHOLE GALLERY EXHIBITION
The Flight of Ikaros
An exhibition of artwork reflecting on Greek - Australian culture, in association with the PanIkarian Brotherhood "Icarus" of Australia Inc
This exhibition is unique in the sense that all the artists involved have a connection to the remote, and until recently, bypassed Greek island of Ikaria.
All the participants in this show are either direct descendants of Greek migrants of this island or have married into their community.
The exhibition is part of the 50th Golden Jubilee 1958-2008 celebrations of the PanIkarian Brotherhood "Icarus" of Australia Inc
The artists in this exhibition bring a unique vision via sculpture, photography and painting of the migrant experience.
Eleni Pitsilioni-Alexiou is a Sydney based ceramicist. She grew up in Greece (her mother was from the island of Ikaria) and has lived and worked in Sydney for the last 25 years. She studied pottery in Greece and has also worked with weaving and jewellery. This exhibition will feature some of her exquisite ceramics and a range of jewellery, including earrings.
Sculptor Stavros (Steve) Carapetis refers to his style as "Organic Abstract", with the actual pieces emerging as though they already exist inside the raw material. "I love working in stone and wood" Stavros says. "Each medium has its fascination and beauty for me." The forms and shapes that he creates are smooth and flowing with images of, and similarities to, elements of the human form; hence the reference to term "organic".
Painter and sculptorBill Cook and his wife Mary have just returned from 8 months in Greece, mostly on the island of Ikaria. He spent the first three months painting and drawing intensely on this island in the village of Kampos.
Bill also took up an artist residency on Skopelos, a northern Greek island, noted for its scenic beauty and formed the major backdrop for the film "Mamma Mia". Skopelos town is a picture postcard Greek village and the residency is perched up on the side of a hill overlooking a brilliant, aqua blue bay.
Whilst away, Bill had a very successful solo exhibition in the town of Evthilos on Ikaria, and can now take satisfaction knowing that many of his works are in private Greek collections and the City of Evthilos collection.
Bill’s daughter, Sarah-Jane Cook is a professional practicing artist and community arts worker. Sarah-Jane has participated in arts residencies in New Delhi, India and in Ashfield, New South Wales and has exhibited widely.
Drawing on personal experiences as an individual of mixed ethnic origins she is constantly drawn to investigating day to day activities, beliefs and rituals that make up who we are to try and understand her own and others’ issues around identity, tradition, language and culture.
Joanna Kalambogias was born in Adelaide of Greek heritage. Joanna has developed a strong interest in the Greek community and its culture, and has established herself as a prominent artist within the community.
Joanna’s work is both personal and symbolic and she requires the viewer to search for her intentions through a close reading of the work and its many elements.
Stefanis Kourakis is a graduate of the SA School of Art, studying in the same era as Bill Cook. Stefanis’ work is original and very individual, and challenges the thinking viewer.
John Panteladis was born in Icaria, and migrated with his family in 1953. He taught art at various High Schools for 30 years, and since retiring has begun painting landscapes and portraits in oils.
John explores the beauty of nature in all its forms, and expresses his inspirations, feelings, perceptions and impressions using colour to communicate. In 2000 he visited Greece and Europe and staged a very successful first solo exhibition in Icaria.
Maria Tsounis graduated from the SA Art School with a Printmaking major in 1984, but didn’t make a print again for 20 years - not till she purchased a computer and printer in 2004. "I am interested in blending my interest in nostalgia, with photography, digital manipulation and mixed media" Maria says.
She has always taken photos, and found that learning digital image manipulation was liberating and useful in accelerating the speed and means by which she could process images. It has brought her back to contemplating the creative process - a wonderful antidote to the stresses of everyday life.
As a quirky twist of fate approximately 180 families from the island Ikaria, named for the legendary Ikaros, have settled in Adelaide. They have provided SA with skilled trades people, teachers, lawyers, an assortment of other professionals, four or five multi millionaires and most recently a Supreme Court Judge. All this is far disproportionate to this island’s meager population of 7,000.
to download 'The Flight of Ikaros' catalogue, click on the link (below) cat_08_Ikaros.pdf
OFFICIAL LAUNCH ‘The Flight of Ikaros’ was officially opened at 6.45pm, Friday 7 November, with Gallery M open from 5 – 8pm.
Nick Chapley, Past President of the PanIkarian Brotherhood gave an introduction in Greek
Guest Speaker was Steve Georganas MP, Federal Member for Hindmarsh.
Opening night music was performed by Dimos Alexiou
MEET THE ARTISTS Visitors had an opportunity to meet and talk to some of the artists in Gallery M from 2pm, Sunday 9 November
10 October - 2 November 2008
TWO EXHIBITIONS
Awaken
artwork in various media by members of The Red House Group Inc
Once again the Red House Group is displaying a broad selection of artwork in diverse media
The title ‘Awaken’ has evoked a range of responses, from the topical issues of climate change and the plight of the earth, to more literal translations.
Work includes paintings, photography, print making, drawing, textiles, ceramics, basketry, porcelain (on glaze) and sculptures in various media.
Since the Red House Group originated in 1994, nearly 1,000 artists have joined the group, with membership each year remaining at approximately 250-300 artists.
The Red House Group is a non profit, artist managed organisation that acts for a focus for art and cultural activities for all individuals and groups in the City of Marion council area and surrounding region
Many members have maintained their involvement since those early years, and as well as participating in group exhibitions they provide essential volunteer support for the operations of Gallery M.
When the Marion Cultural Centre opened in 2001, the Red House Group were given the opportunity to manage Gallery M on behalf of the City of Marion.
This relationship has proved very successful, and 150 separate exhibitions will have been shown by the time the MCC celebrates its 7th anniversary in November.
The Red House Group gives all artists the chance to meet and network with their peers, and many members have made important professional and social connections through their involvement. Annual membership is just $25 or $15 concession. Contact Gallery M staff for more information.
‘Awaken’ was officially launched by Marg Edgecombe, Team Leader, Arts & Cultural Development, City of Marion at 6.30pm, Friday 10 October.
CATWALK
funky felines, femme fatales and fashion fantastiqueby Helena Nikitins
Helena Nikitins has combined two of her great passions – fashion and felines in this amazingly colourful original exhibition.
Most of the exhibits are paintings on silk as well as pastels and some mixed media. There are frisky, funky and fabulous felines, realistic and stylized. The fashion related paintings celebrate the elegance and beauty of the feminine spirit, inspired by Erté and Klimt. Also featured are hand-painted jackets and silk scarves.
The fashion designs fall well short of Haute Couture, as they are primarily intended for Helena herself, a lady of mature years and an ordinary lifestyle. Fortunately she is an eccentric, convinced she was a Christmas tree in a previous life. Her creations are both original and flamboyant. The outfits focus on Melbourne Cup, leopard prints and fashion for special occasions.
Helena’s aim for ‘Catwalk’ was to challenge herself as an artist, which she feels she has achieved to some degree. It is the first time she has painted ‘ladies’ with silk dyes – and only started using pastels twelve months ago, a medium she has embraced with the future in mind.
This exhibition mirrors Helena’s simplistic philosophy of art. She likes art to reflect the more positive, aesthetic aspects of life, to be uplifting or entertaining, rather than merely provocative or disturbing. Her motto is – focus on flowers not sewers. A blatant romantic, in this case she has concentrated on beautiful fashionistas and felines
‘Catwalk’
was officially opened by Rainer Jozeps, Chief Executive, Adelaide Symphony Orchestra at 7pm Friday 10 October.
The opening was a ‘happening’, featuring a small scale fashion parade and performance of a couple of Helena’s illustrated cat poems.
ARTIST TALK Visitors had an opportunity to meet and talk to Helena about her work at Gallery M from 2pm, Sunday 19 October.
12 September - 5 October 2008
THREE EXHIBITIONS
tabby / al-attabiya
textiles by the Wild Fibre artists
The Wild Fibre artists will present their latest exhibition ‘tabby / al-attabiya’ at Gallery M in September. This will be the group’s fifth exhibition since 2005, when the group formed and mounted their inaugural exhibition ‘Threads Run Wild’, also at Gallery M.
The group came together through their shared love of textiles and the creative art of weaving – making fabulous creations using fabric and yarn. Members of the group experiment with a variety of materials and techniques, encouraging each other to develop their expertise, and to experiment with new ways of working with fibre. Liz Yates and Necia Magain have been working with the ancient craft of basketry, Karen Tate will exhibit hanging screen-printed fabrics and Kaaren Temme has been inspired by the beauty of tapestry. Helen Sherriff works within a range of fibre applications to produce wall mounted and 3D pieces. Charmian Quintrell shows her love of felting with framed works incorporating felt, silk fibres and stitching. Bev Bills and Margaret Harris present their beautifully crafted woven garments and cloth, while Liz Steveson and Jackie Pearce will display their hand embroidered and embellished mixed media works.
The unusual title of this new exhibition, ‘tabby / alattabiya’, comes from the Middle East. The word ‘tabby’ was originally used to describe any waved or watered cloth, and comes from the Attabiya quarter of Bagdad where the cloth was originally woven. A 12th-century writer described “the stuffs called Attabiya” as being “silks and cottons of various colours”. The word “tabby”, associated with the brindled or irregular striped and streaked pattern of cloth, also came to be applied to a new breed of cat that appeared in England at the end of the 17th-century. “Tabby” is a word that has been used to describe a gossiping woman or old maid as well as a type of moth and a kind of concrete. The Wild Fibre artists consider these various interpretations of ‘tabby’ in their new work.
‘Tabby / al-attabiya’ was officially launched by Reverend Vikki Waller, textile artist, past Director of Royal SA Society of Arts and Uniting Church Minister at 6.30pm, Friday 12 September 2008.
ARTIST TALKS Visitors had an opportunity to meet and talk to some of the Wild Fibre artists at Gallery M from 2pm, Sunday 14 & 21 September.
CITYSCAPE
paintings by Pamela Smith
‘Cityscape’ is the debut solo exhibition by artist Pamela Smith. Despite a childhood spent on the Yorke Peninsula, she has focused her attention in recent years to the skylines, facades, shapes and shades of the city.Her interest in art blossomed when she discovered calligraphy in 1987. Pamela became a teacher in this art form, spending many years working with students across the Yorke Peninsular and Mid North districts.
More recently, creating a huge acrylic backdrop on calico for a party stirred her creative impulses, and led to numerous commissions for large banners. She quickly progressed to painting on canvas, using acrylic painting techniques to capture the intricacies of the urban environment. Pamela, often partnered by her husband who is a keen photographer, hasrecorded the changing city vistas over the years. She loves old buildings, especially the beautifully carved facades, rusting tin, interesting textures and shapes against the skyline. Pamela reflects that “many of these landmarks are no longer there, so to preserve their memory on canvas is one way of keeping them alive”.
‘Cityscape’ was officially launched by the artist Pamela Smith at 7.15pm, Friday 12 September 2008.
ARTIST TALK
Visitors had an opportunity to meet and talk to Pamela about her work at Gallery M from 2pm, Saturday 20 September.
DREAMING
Mixed media by Annika Robertson
Annika Robertson is determined to make the environment the main focus of her work, but is tired of ‘traditional’ political art, which she finds too idealistic and reactive. Instead, Annika strives to understand the cultural and psychological mechanisms that enable perfectly decent, intelligent and well meaning people to act in thoughtless and destructive ways.She seeks to expose the illusions and dreams we have about ourselves as the privileged people of the developed world.
Annika considers the role culture plays in defining our identities. She feels that we neglect the real cost of our living standards, and that global change is dependant on the small individual choices we make everyday.‘Dreaming’ is something of a first instalment, setting out the territory for Annika’s ongoing preoccupations. The title of the exhibition reflects the mental state in which she believes many people operate. Annika uses found objects and discarded material to make her sculptural forms, adopting the traditional crafts of sewing, weaving and basketry. She prefers to use the debris of our society because she can consider the problems which inform her work without adding to them.
The material used in creating the artworks is collected from roadsides and household waste. Annika enjoys this opportunistic form of art making, the challenge of ‘what can I do with this?’ The art grows from the unpredictable and unplanned nature of the materials used, often rewarding the artist with a sense of unearthing something hidden and striking.
‘Dreaming’ was officially launched by Maureen Pritchard,
Principal Lecturer in Visual Art at O’Halloran Hill TAFE Campus
at 7pm, Friday 12 September 2008.
ARTIST TALK
Visitors had an opportunity to meet and talk to Annika about her work at Gallery M from 2pm, Sunday 14 September.
15 August - 7 September 2008
THREE EXHIBITIONS
TOUCH OF REALITY
paintings by members of
The Marion Art Group
The Marion Art Group was formed in 1978, and in the ensuing years has become a well known and respected group of artists producing high standard works. This year it is celebrating its 30th Anniversary.
The group originated when local artist Sue Shilling, through ‘The Messenger’ suggested that a group be formed to paint and exhibit together. After meeting in the old Warradale Institute for ten years, the group moved to the Marino Community Hall, where members still meet and paint on Monday mornings.
Over the years, many thousands of dollars have been donated to charities as a result of raffled paintings at the group’s exhibitions. This year all money raised will go to the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
After thirty years the group of approximately 75 members is still committed to fostering an active interest in painting for people of all ages – in the Marion community and further afield.
ART DEMONSTRATION Artists from the Marion Art Group demonstrated painting and met visitors at Gallery M on Sunday 24 August
AQUEOUS
photography by Gilbert Roe
The inspiration for these pictures by Gilbert Roe comes from his early morning walks at Henley Beach. The inter-zone between the water and the sand fascinates him, especially at the beginning of the day. So much happens then: the light is constantly changing; the sea is being controlled by the tides. There is much that is readily experienced: as well as much that is beyond the powers of the mind.
Gilbert has been practicing and studying photography for nearly 30 years. During this time, he has investigated a variety of subjects including the urban and rural landscape. Whilst currently living at Henley Beach he is exploring the sea, beach and various aspects of the local environs.
The movement of the tide and the progression of time are important elements of Gilbert’s work. They emphasise aspects of our lives as human beings. Thus, these seascapes and beachscapes are metaphors for the time and tide of human life.
"Looking at the sea, the sky and being in the water whilst standing on the beach. Dawn – day – dusk – night. What results are the impressions left in my consciousness: being with and within?" Gilbert ponders. "The beach is real and at the same time ethereal. It is here, under my feet, seemingly solid. The water surges around my ankles. Waves, like the clouds, are ephemeral. Awed by the boundless sea and sky, gazing into the aether."
MEET THE ARTIST Gilbert Roe was in Gallery M to meet and talk with visitors about his work on Sunday 24 August
DESIRE
artwork in various media by members of the Vizlinx Group
These six members of the Vizlinx Group: Isabel Oyevaar-Pinto, Philip Peckover, Moya Severin, Elizabeth Sparks, Lorraine Weaver and Eliza Wilson met whilst completing a Bachelor of Visual Arts Degree at the University of South Australia, some with Honours.
Each artist’s style is distinct, and this exhibition presents various works of art in mixed media, drawing and painting. Their aim is to explore various themes and step out of their comfort zones.
The title of this exhibition ‘Desire’ can be interpreted in a number of ways – to wish, long for; to ask for, entreat; a longing or craving; an expressed wish, request; and sexual appetite.
Some of these paintings will depict Cupid and the desire for love. Others are presenting landscapes and perhaps the desire for wealth and stability. Famous artists such as Durer and Titian depicted Adam and Eve’s desire for something: more?
These artworks are visually stimulating, colourful and varied in technique and style.
MEET THE ARTISTS Artists from the Vizlinx Group were in Gallery M for an informal ‘Meet the Artists’ session on Sunday 24 August
18 July - 10 August 2008
TWO EXHIBITIONS
HERE, THERE AND BACK AGAIN
landscape and semi-abstract paintings by mother and son Ann Cook & Matthew Cook
This exhibition features the artwork of a unique combination – mother and son. Both Ann Cook and Matthew Cook paint in acrylics in bright and colourful expressive styles, with large and small paintings, and wall hangings forming this display.
Ann Cook is a South Australian painter, but has spent considerable time in New Zealand, where her children were born. She has only started to paint more recently, after working with various crafts for many years. Ann paints images of the landscape contemplating the effects of the elements (fire, wind, water, dust and sand erosion) upon the environment.
"I particularly like the tranquillity and spirituality of early morning light and for that reason rarely include human figures in my work" Ann says. "I prefer instead to invoke a feeling of contemplation of the scene from a sheltered perspective".
Ann’s aim is produce paintings with an identifiable Australian feel without necessarily constraining herself to a place on a map. She describes her current works as colourful semi-abstract landscapes with a strong elemental influence.
Matthew Cook graduated with a Visual Arts Degree from Southern Cross University in Lismore, and majored in Design at Otago University in Dunedin, New Zealand. Although born and raised in New Zealand, he has embraced the culture of Australia.
He gains inspiration from both self reflection and time in the natural landscape., and has travelled extensively through the northern areas of NSW and outback Australia including Cunnamulla, Yowa the Strzelecki Desert, the Gammon Ranges and Flinders Ranges. Painting in the Flinders fulfilled a dream. "The land is full of beauty and its ancient soils and vast skies have inspired many" Matthew says.
Matthew is working with ideas of the inner healing / or spiritual journey, exploring and interpreting the cultural history which he sees, hears and feels embodied in the land. He believes painting is about contemplation and listening to our mind in relation to the painting and the environment.
He has been experimenting with layers of thinner paints with rich pigments, and paints on stretched canvas and eyeleted un-stretched canvas. Because of their size, some of his work would be suited to Public buildings or large corporate spaces.
‘Here, There and Back Again’ was officially opened at Gallery M at 7pm, Friday 18 July by artist Gill Higgins, Owner of The Seahouse, Glenelg.
XIV
Artwork in various media by members of The Red House Group
Once again, Gallery M is giving members of The Red House Group the opportunity to exhibit in a half gallery exhibition. This time, the number of artists has been limited to sixty, so there was keen competition from members to participate.
Interestingly, a significant number of the artists involved are new members of the Red House Group, or have not previously put work into a member exhibition. All media will be on display, including paintings, drawings, collage, photography, printmaking, sculpture and textiles.
The title ‘XIV’ (fourteen) refers to the fact that 2008 celebrates the fourteenth anniversary of the Red House Group, which was incorporated in 1994. Since that time, over 970 artists have joined the group, with current financial membership each year remaining at about 280.
The Red House Group Inc is an artist managed non-profit organisation that acts as a focus for art and cultural activities for all individuals and groups in the City of Marion council area and its surrounding region. The Red House Group manages Gallery M on behalf of the City of Marion.
The artwork in this exhibition will be featured in the 2009 promotional Gallery M art calendar, which will be available by October. All the artwork will be displayed in the calendar, which comes in a display box which doubles as a stand. Stocks will be limited, so if you would like copies, remember to put your name on the waiting list!
This exhibition also coincides with the SALA (South Australian Living Artists) Festival, which was first presented in 1998 to provide a platform for South Australian artists to come together; showcase their works, share their knowledge, and importantly, celebrate the talents of our State’s visual artists. Ten years later, it has become the largest visual arts Festival in South Australia; with over 400 exhibitions, open studios and events for audiences to choose from.
‘XIV’ was officially opened by RHG Foundation member Billie Adams at 6.30pm, Friday 18 July.
Billie was one of the original 35 artists who helped make the old Red House Gallery a reality. A number of the original members are still actively involved with the group, and four of these have work in this exhibition. Hare Krishna Bag, Loka Bag, Anne Thompson and Marlie Unmuth have all submitted paintings.
20 June - 13 July 2008
THREE EXHIBITIONS
STRATA
paintings by Rosie Singer glass by Sheryl Glassmith ceramics by Jane Burbidge
After living in isolated mining communities for several years, Rosie Singer has pursued an interest in abstract painting incorporating a variety of mixed media materials to achieve emotive mining landscapes. Crushed rock, inks, bitumen, wax and various oils are all utilised in her attempt to capture the beauty and intricacies of geological structure blended with mining applications and techniques.
"My hope is to make onlookers recognise and identify on some level with the work" Rosie says, "and to be made to feel and to think about the mining environment and how it sustains and enriches our lives".
Sheryl Glassmith has been working in the glass and arts industry for 25 years, and runs her own studio and retail outlet in the Adelaide Hills. She produces a range of kiln formed glass ware, one-off exhibition pieces and architectural work incorporating a number of different methods. Most of her work is screen printed with high fire enamels on glass, and this process has been refined by combining drawings and images with contemporary digital techniques.
"The designs on my glass are as changeable as my moods" Sheryl says. "The biggest influence is my natural environment; I try to capture the essence of it so that I can bring the outside world indoors".
Jane Burbidge’s ceramics are influenced by an interest in Archaeology and Palaeontology and the strata layers in which the remaining remnants and shards have been encased. This has led to her belief that, the death of a living organism, or demise of a culture, is not the end. Rather, it is the beginning of the removal of outer layers to reveal innermost secrets.
"For me, these artefacts have become a part of the earth and gained an artistic beauty with the passing of time and effects of weathering, erosion and decay" Jane says. "I try to capture these random effects of nature and combine them with human order and structure, in a way which suggests that they are irrevocably entwined".
Husband and wife photographers Marianne Lim and Dylan Toh are working professionals, who use their Annual Leave allowances to do the bulk of their photography whilst on holiday. Their destinations are mostly chosen based on natural beauty and are somewhat ‘off-the-beaten-track’ – many of the images are made after 5 or 6 hours walking on tracks that are not accessible other than by foot.
This exhibition showcases the beauty of the world as seen through their eyes, from places they have been to.
All images independently post-processed – no batch processing, so that each image is unique and individual. The images taken are as seen by the naked eye; there is no addition or deletion of objects – post-processing is limited to cropping, and special effects (if any is deemed to enhance the image e.g. selective colouring, sepia, black and white).
This is a collection of images from around the world celebrating the beauty of the Earth" Marianne says. "From majestic mountains to the tiniest flower the Earth is weaving a symphony, calling us to revel in its glory".
hardly remembers a time when she did not paint or create in some form or another. Growing up in the geographically significant Lake Alexandrina / Coorong area, inspiration was at her doorstep. The area was unique, beautiful and historic.
She was self taught until the early 80’s, when she first commenced studies. "My greatest honour and privilege was to meet and work with John Wolsely" Erica says. "Watching this man work, and hearing his amazing stories were an inspiration that will never leave me".
Erica was a founding member of Coorong Cottage Industries in 1993, and also became the local representative for the South Australian Touring Art Program, exhibiting beautiful creations from artists around the state.
Art has become a fundamental need for her. Erica has managed to include it in as many life choices as possible, including moves to Hahndorf, NSW, and the northern rivers area in Queensland. Erica is now based back in SA, and works within the art and drama department of Mercedes College.
She has experimented with many mediums, and enjoys doing so, but still finds that oil paint remains the kindest to her. This exhibition will feature landscapes and other views in oil, gouache and mixed media, as well as decorative embroidered and painted pieces.
An exhibition of photographs by Stephanie Schrapel
Taken in a period spanning over forty years, these stunning photographs feature Adelaide, country SA, the Centre, Kakadu, and Lake Mungo; as well as overseas heritage sites and people.
Stephanie finds inspiration in the rising and setting of the sun and moon and the brilliance of the southern sky, and responds intellectually and emotionally to the ever-changing quality of light, particularly the mellowness of the late afternoon.
She is also drawn to the power of sacred places, natural and man made; and the diversity of the natural environment from the rugged beauty and awesome scale to the intricate patternings of the microcosm. Another favoured subject is the interaction of peoples with each other and their environments.
"Art is not reducable to a lowest common denominator, nor is it restrictable to a 9 to 5 occupation divorced from the rest of one’s thought and action. Art is a way of life, a passion, and obsession" Stephanie says. "Art inspires and transforms and I am ever grateful to all those artists who constantly enrich my life."
Stephanie has come to realise and accept that her journeying is not along any well trodden paths with comfortable or even predictable destinations but the challenge of pursuing the infinite. Her insatiable desire to know is fused with and tempered by an equal obligation to pass on the knowledge gained. Travelling in time and space has lateralised her perceptions and she is indebted to all those other travellers who, through the sharing of their experiences, have opened her eyes to new sights, led her to different ways, and enabled her to find insights.
Stephanie hopes that her efforts and enjoyment provide catalysts for others. She will be in Gallery M to meet and talk with visitors from 2pm, Sunday 25 May, in conjunction with SA HISTORY WEEK. Free entry, all welcome.
2008 is the International Year of Planet Earth, and nothing can be quite as important as the environment for all who care about the future of the planet.
This exhibition of paintings in vibrant warm hues celebrates the colours, moods, sights, sounds and smells of the natural environment. The images include urban, sea and landscapes.
Pip loves both the country and the seaside, and the changing patterns and feel of both. "Growing up on a farm one was often alone with nature and nature was part of one" Pip says.
Pip has been producing art for thirty five years, and has studied drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking and photography in art schools in Adelaide, Paris and London.
Pip will be in gallery M to meet and talk to visitors from 2pm, Sunday 15 June.
An exhibition from a private collection of Aboriginal artworks from across Australia including selected paintings by Brinkin / Yammagi artist Nikki Baugh
Often people think of Aboriginal art as the familiar dot style of artwork, which has become internationally famous. However, this collection of Aboriginal artwork includes raark (crosshatching), traditional styles from the Northern Territory and Tiwi Islands, and artefacts such as boomerangs, woven baskets and shell jewellery. It also includes a decorated woomera by Benjamin Landara, son in law of Albert Namatjira, and painted in the Hermannsburg style.
Local art collector Irene Whennan has been accumulating Aboriginal artwork since 2001, and has approximately 150 pieces in her collection. Her interest in Aboriginal art grew from the time that Qantas decorated some of their aircraft with Balarinji Designs (she now proudly has two models of these planes in her collection).
Irene’s intention is to have representation from all clans or tribal areas in Australia.
To showcase local contemporary Aboriginal Art, Irene has invited Nikki Baugh to show a selection of her artwork, which will be for sale. Nikki grew up in traditional rural and urban Aboriginal communities in NT and WA, and has lived in South Australia since 1997. Her artwork is indicative of her cultural upbringing, and she uses both traditional styles and mythology which she has fused with her urban lifestyle.
"I want to encourage others to respect nature, the land and waterways as much as our people do" Nikki says. "This spirituality and love of my culture, peoples and country is the premise for all my artwork".
Nikki Baugh will be in Gallery M from 2pm Sunday 1 June to talk with visitors about her work.
The exhibition coincides with Reconciliation Week 27 May-3 June.
Artwork in various media by members of The Red House Group Inc
This is the first Red House Group exhibition for 2008, with two others scheduled for later in the year. All members are invited to submit artwork, and about 70 pieces of artwork will be on display in this half gallery exhibition. As in previous member exhibitions, there is always a wide range of styles and techniques on display.
The Red House Group originated in 1994, when a small group of local artists converted the old red brick bungalow adjacent to the City of Marion admin building on Sturt Road into a gallery and gallery shop. With the support of Marion Council, the group established the ‘Red House Gallery’ that soon gained a reputation as a sought after exhibition space.
When the Marion Cultural Centre was built in 2001, the Red House Group was given the opportunity to manage Gallery M on behalf of the City of Marion.
Over 960 artists have joined the Red House Group since those fledgling early days, and each year the membership remains at about 280 current members. Many of those members are regular volunteers at Gallery M, and their continued support is the main reason for the ongoing success of Gallery M.
The title ‘Elemental’ can be interpreted in several different ways, and the exhibiting artists have each responded to that intriguing title. According to the Oxford dictionary, the definition can relate to "the four elements, of the powers of nature"; it can be the most "essential element"; and can also mean an "entity or force thought to be physically manifested by occult means".
Artists in the exhibition display a diverse range of skills and experience, and include the youngest Red House member, 10 year old Tessa Manning (see image, left), through to one of the older members Alick Pope.
Artwork from the ‘Elemental’ exhibition will travel to Naracoorte Art Gallery, and be on display from Friday 6 June.
An exchange exhibition from Naracoorte Art Gallery
This exhibition features artwork that was displayed in the recent Naracoorte Art Gallery 2008 Sculpture and Art Prize, that was held in conjunction with the "Taste the Limestone Coast Festival" during February and March this year.
The idea of an exchange exhibition with Gallery M came about following a conversation between the respective Mayors of the two council districts - Mayor Felicity-ann Lewis of the City of Marion, and Mayor Ken Grundy from Naracoorte Lucindale Council.
‘Inspirations of the Orient’ features the work of about 60 artists, in a variety of media including paintings, photography, textiles and 3D works. In the original exhibition, artists were awarded prizes in different categories, and some of the winning pieces will be on display at Gallery M. They include ‘Best Thematic’ work by Uta Mooney, best ‘Painting’ by Trish Daniels, 1st Prize in the ‘Photography’ section by Ingrid Winbury, and best ‘Textile’ by Jo Fife. There was also a prize for junior artists under 16 years.
The Orient simply means East and includes all these countries: China, Japan, Taiwan, Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Burma, Laos, Egypt, Turkey, Philippines and the smaller countries around Russia. The artists have used these countries for their inspiration, responding to the theme with colour and imagination. Many of the pieces will be for sale.
Naracoorte is situated in the South East, about 330 km from Adelaide. The Art Gallery of Naracoorte, located in a once beautiful Georgian home, is the first regional public art gallery to be established in South Australia, and each year the gallery hosts exhibitions of local artists and visiting collections.
Naracoorte and Marion established a ‘Sister City’ relationship in 1992, with the aim of fostering closer relationships and mutual understanding with each community.
This exhibition exchange is a great opportunity to strengthen the links between our two galleries, as well as city and country artists.
Both exhibitions ‘Elemental’ and ‘Inspirations of the Orient’ were officially opened at 2pm, Sunday 27 March by Her Worship the Mayor of Marion, Felicity-ann Lewis.
Hospitality by Patritti Wines
28 March - 20 April 2008
WHOLE GALLERY EXHIBITION
MULTI DIMENSIONAL JOURNEY
artworks in various media by
Cathi Steer & Maré Puksand
This exhibition combines the artwork of two artists – Cathi Steer and Maré Puksand, who both have a love of landscape and a passion for colour.
Cathi Steer spent her childhood surrounded by nature on a farm near Penola in the South East, and nature is still a strong influence on her work today. She has always been fascinated by the rugged southern coastal areas, where the bare essentials of nature, air, earth and water work together to create a landscape in its purest form. Cathi describes it as "an unclad landscape revealed, capturing the ever-changing light on all its facets".
From the weathered beauty of the cliffs of Maslins Beach and surrounds in the south, to the industrial and built up areas around the Port to the north, Cathi is continually attracted to the place where land meets sea. Her work is created ‘en plein air’, and on larger canvases in the studio.
After working with acrylic inks on paper for many years, Cathi has begun experimenting with its various effects on canvas, which has produced very satisfying results.
The acrylic paints are used as an undercoat, then the coloured ink is washed over as a glaze.
Included in this exhibition are some exquisite small working drawings in coloured pencil and pen, and another of Cathi’s favourite subjects – the unclad human form.
To download more examples of Cathi Steer's artwork, click on the link (below)
Maré Puksand was born in Estonia, and immigrated to Australia as a young girl. She has lived in the Adelaide hills for many years, and has recently retired from her teaching career to spend more time with her passion, creating art. Her paintings are a combination of contemporary and traditional work – mainly of European and Australian landscapes.
Maré uses diverse media in her art production, including pastel, Indian and water based inks. She describes her paintings as "textured ink", and manipulates the flow of inks on heavy paper to create interesting contrasts. "Thus it is possible to capture the Spirit of Nature more freely and to present a different style of work to the viewer" Maré says.
Maré is also a highly skilled potter, and included in this exhibition is a range of ceramic pots and masks, painted and glazed to compliment the colours of her paintings. Some of the pots are on custom made iron stands. The masks are embellished with feathers, beads etc for added impact
Both artists have exhibited widely, and their works are in collections in Australia and overseas.
To download more examples of Maré Puksand's artwork, click on the link (below)
Mary Cartwright, Eddie Knuepffer, Ron Orchard & Qi Zhao
This exhibition combines the work of four artists who have made their home in Adelaide, but have studied and lived in points across the globe. Their work includes paintings, drawings, mixed media, digital images and sculpture.
Mary Cartwright was born in the UK, and received her art training at the Launceston and North Adelaide Schools of art. A love of life and experimentation drives her to analyse the relationships between colour, shape and texture in a mixture of media. She brings to her work abstract and figurative techniques and intensely personal experiences that draw us into the world of her imagination.
"My paintings reflect my interest in the organic" Mary says, "concentrating on components rather than the whole". Mary’s sophisticated flower studies relate to her love of gardening, and in her figurative work she explores the mysteries of our erotic fantasies and the infinite variation in the shape and texture of the human figure.
Eddie Knuepffer is a sculptor, painter and photographer. He was born in Berlin, Germany, and came to Australia in 1953. Eddie is a keen observer of the human figure, and enjoys the art of life drawing. Much of his sculpture, as well as his other art, is based on abstract concepts of the human figure. Eddie’s 2D works in this exhibition are manipulated images of photographs, pastels and sketches. "I use digital processes to merge, superimpose, colour, manipulate and abstract the various components to create new works" Eddie says.
His sculptural pieces are made of aerated concrete, a building material which is sold commercially under the name of Hebel block. Artists such as Rodin, Picasso, Matisse, Henry Moore and Paul Klee have had an impact on Eddie’s imagination and creativity.
Ron Orchard grew up in Canada, and studied at the Camberwell School of Art in London in the 60’s, and the Central School of Art. At that time he was working in figurative and abstract ways, and the merging of the two directions is still being resolved in his artistic creations.
"Drawing, because of its flexibility and universal application lends itself well to the fluctuation of ideas" Ron says. "Human beings, and one could say, also civilizations draw on their psyche for identification and so the drawing process, is for me, a search for my own identity". In this exhibition Ron uses the observed form as a starting point. It is also about finding ways of extending the human form and about bridging the human form to the Universal.
Qi Zhao studied at the Guang Zhou College of Fine Art and Culture, China, and continued his studies in Australia at the Julian Ashton Art School, Sydney and the University of South Australia, achieving a Master of Visual Art in 2005. "Some particular landscapes of Australia have stimulated my imagination to mix image rising out of ancient Chinese painting and literature" Qi says. "This psychological phenomenon illustrates inseparable two cultures in my life". Qi sees these two cultures as Yin and Yang, and the interaction and balance of two cultures have been a positive and dynamic stimulus on his personal life and his art practice.
This series of Qi’s paintings are focused on a two-panel painting format that depicts landscapes of two countries. The images which illustrated Qi’s memories of Chinese culture are from the ancient Chinese ink paintings. The images representing the Australian landscapes are based on South Australian sceneries. In terms of painting technique, Qi uses ancient Chinese ink painting’s perspective of ‘moving focus’ on the Western Acrylic painting format. A unique relationship of autonomy and interrelatedness between two panels emerge.
The exhibition title ‘Hajimemashite’ is a Japanese expression literally meaning "I am meeting you for the first time". It is used as a greeting when you are introduced to someone for the first time. This is Janine’s first solo exhibition, so through her work, she is meeting you for the first time.
The exhibition features a selection of photographic images of nature and landscapes, in Black and White and Colour; presented in the contemporary format of limited edition Giclee prints on canvas. The images were shot on film using a Canon EOS 500 SLR camera.
Janine’s images, through thoughtful subject selection and composition, abstract the ordinary with stunning results. Textures, shape and form are enhanced through use of light and careful selection of paper. "Through my photography I strive to capture the beauty and diversity of Australia’s nature and landscapes ‘as it is’ without digital manipulation", Janine says.
These images represent a range of subjects and locales; rural, coastal & dune, river & woodland. All were photographed in Australia (South Australian regions and Fraser Island) with the exception of "Kirstenbosch Aloe" which was photographed in Cape Town, South Africa. This image is included in the exhibition because it complements the Australian images so well.
‘Hajimemashite’
was officially opened by award winning photographer and lecturer Ken Binns at 6.30pm, Friday 18 January.
Shahin was born in Iran, and her background includes studies in architecture, many years experiencing the style of traditional Persian miniatures, and the study of carpet design and decoration in Tehran. She migrated to Australia eight years ago, and has continued her studies gaining a BA (Visual Arts) at O’Halloran Hill TAFE.
This exhibition features birds painted in ‘miniature’ style, incorporated with Persian calligraphy to elaborate their meaning. Shahin observes how birds reside harmlessly among humanity, and notes their utterances may often be heard with melodies so pleasing that parts of Persian music have been tuned to their chords.
"Birds are of different forms and each belongs to its own area of land" Shahin says. "Their migration symbolises the life of myself and others in similar situations who have flown to this land and begun new lives."
The poetic works of ‘Rumi’ have been recorded in some of the paintings, with the birds becoming, in effect, the speakers of the words. Other paintings feature contemporary work from Sepehri, Shamlo and Moshiri; traditional poets like Hakim Omar Khayam; or even works of greater men like Baha’u’llah, being the Messenger of Peace to the world of man. Translations will be on display.
‘Feathered Friends’ was officially opened by Maureen Prichard, TAFE Principal Lecturer in Visual Art, at 6.45pm, Friday 18 January.
This exhibition of paintings evolved during an extremely challenging period in Paula Kerr’s life. She was diagnosed with cancer just before Christmas 2006, and it was during her recovery that she began to work with beads, incorporating them into her paintings.
Paula likes to hunt around the house and find articles that can be transformed and used in her paintings; and this collection includes old belt buckles, earrings, metallic pieces from old chimes, pieces of leather, and shells from the beach that have been sitting on her window sill for many years. She describes her work as being of an expressionism style.
The theme of the exhibition ‘Space, Sea and Fantasy’ represents Paula’s yearning to escape from her world of pain, and the paintings each reflect one of the three themes. "I wanted to reach out to the night skies and travel away to the farthest planets, Saturn, Neptune, Jupiter" Paula says. "I wanted to swim out into the ocean and feel the waves wash over me; and at night I dreamed of a better place to be". Art was her escape.
This vibrant exhibition was officially opened by Paula’s husband David Kerr at 7pm, Friday 18 January.
Susan visited Afghanistan in 2006, and found it to be a fascinating and contradictory place where aspects of innocent beauty and serenity meet aspects of terror and destruction. Although this exhibition is not meant to be political, it does consist of images of war, poverty and intolerance. It is also a celebration of the beauty and romance found in areas such as Kabul, Bamian and Kunduz.
The exhibition features digital images, photographic collage, and elements of material culture including clothing, diary excerpts, and assorted war related items. These items help to create a stronger connection between the viewer and the exhibition subject.
Susan believes this collection is a strong reminder of the damage that was done in Afghanistan; and an opportunity for people to learn more about the area and see images, people and places they might never have seen before.
"Every single image tells a story – one of enduring hope and freedom" Susan says. "The exhibition helps to create a more complete picture of a place, its people, and the interaction between the two."
Susan has studied Archaeology and has a Bachelor degree from Flinders University. She has travelled extensively and lived in many different countries due to her mother’s occupation as a diplomat. The exhibition was officially opened by her mother Gisela Hayfa at 7.15pm, Friday 18 January.
