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Previous exhibitions - 2011
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27 November 2011 - 6 January 2012
WHOLE GALLERY EXHIBITION
10th Annual City of Marion
Community Art Exhibition
An exhibition of artwork in various media by
residents of the City of Marion
This year, the Annual Christmas Community Art Exhibition is a celebration - this is the tenth annual exhibition since Gallery M and the Marion Cultural Centre opened in 2001.
This exhibition has become a much anticipated event for all the creative residents of the Marion Council area, and over 140 participants are displaying their work. They range from junior artists, hobbyists and ‘weekend dabblers’ through to professional practitioners.
The event is supported by the City of Marion, with no fee for the artists to enter. In addition, on the launch day, the Mayor of Marion presented an award for the ‘Most Outstanding Artwork’, as well as several ‘Merit Awards’.
AWARDS:
'Most Outstanding Artwork in any Media'
cat no. 7-A 'Orange Basket' hand woven Raffia & Eucalyptus basket by Gerda Bader
'Merit Award'
cat no. 3 'Urban Creatures' painting by Robert Brown
'Merit Award'
cat no. 34 'A Room With a View' painting by John Hamilton
'Merit Award'
cat no. 36 'Clean Water not Always on Tap' watercolour by Anne Nightingale
Artwork in all media is featured, including paintings, drawings, ceramics, sculpture, photography, textiles, glass and basketry. Most of the artwork is for sale, at very 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 would stay on display for the duration of an exhibition.
Gallery M is a great venue for children and adults alike, especially during the 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 27 November. Hospitality was generously donated by Patritti Wines of Dover Gardens. Gallery M was also open for a “Preview” from 5-7.30pm, Friday 25 November.
As the Cultural Centre is celebrating its 10th Anniversary, there were activities for everyone over the weekend of 25 - 27 November. Everyone was invited to come along and enjoy the ambience of the Cultural Centre, and discover the many community facilities that are available.
There were various activities, including a birthday cake, live music, entertainment and a Mega Market on the MCC Plaza on Saturday 26 November.
The Gallery M shop also has a great range hand crafted items at very affordable prices, perfect for this time of the year with Christmas fast approaching. A special Christmas display has been created, with unique decorations, cards and a range of other festive items.
28 October - 18 November 2011
TWO HALF GALLERY EXHIBITIONS
The Other Place
An exhibition of surrealist artworks by
Matt Sheehy
Matt Sheehy is a Mount Gambier based artist, who has been painting for about 20 years. He studied at O’Halloran Hill TAFE, but considers himself to be predominantly self-taught. Matt describes his work as exploring possibilities outside the mainstream consensus reality, concepts that would usually be classed as paranormal or esoteric.
Matt defines his work as surreal, because he feels that is a large enough umbrella to fit it under, but he says he doesn’t really think about style when he is working. “It's just about getting the ideas out” Matt says.
Some of Matt’s work is emotionally based, expressing a feeling, through abstraction. Others are the type of image that may generate certain emotion. Other artworks are based on ideas that Matt finds interesting, sometimes being inspired by books, movies and video games.
“I'm interested in alternative theories of consciousness and the universe like pantheism and panpsychism - the concept that reality is subjective and the universe as a conscious entity” Matt says. “I like to explore themes that straddle both science and spirituality, and where they might unify in a new understanding of reality; and how ancient mythology and folklore mirror modern paranormal phenomena”.
Matt works mostly in oils and occasionally in acrylics, and is inspired by many influences, but notes his main ones as Chagall, H.R. Giger and Dali. “At the end of the day, it’s just my way of seeing the world” Matt says, “looking at ourselves from an unconventional, and, hopefully, previously unexplored point of view”.
View images by Matt Sheehy
'The Other Place' exhibition sales catalogue
MEET THE ARTIST
2pm Sunday 30 October
A chance to meet Matt Sheehy and discuss his work in a relaxed and informal atmosphere.
Free entry, all welcome
Drawing Conclusions too
An exhibition featuring drawings by
members of the Red House Group Inc
As the Red House Group moves 18th year, the challenge continues for members to extend themselves to produce artwork of a consistently high quality in a range of media.
‘Drawing Conclusion too’ showcases the work of approximately 60 members, who choose to work in a wide variety of styles. But for this exhibition, each artwork is a drawing.
The big question is – how do you define ‘a drawing’?
“Drawing is an enormously wide-ranging, infinitely varying and subtle activity; it may be looked on as a graphic script of endless individual permutation… a miraculous equivalent of the spoken and written word. It is one of the most potent, intuitive and yet highly evolved weapons that can be used to comprehend the unknown.”1
A similar exhibition featuring drawings, ‘Drawing Conclusions’, was held in Gallery M in 2006 with great success. Once again Red House artists have responded to this challenge with an eclectic mix of work, both traditional and contemporary.
Familiar media, such as pen and ink, charcoal, pastel and mixed media are well represented, but there are other imaginative responses.
Some of the drawings in this exhibition have been etched on glass, stitched on paper and textiles, put onto handmade paper, woven into baskets, decorated porcelain and formed into a 3D sculpture, using wire.
Nearly 1100 artists have joined the Red House Group since 1994, so there is a wealth of skills and experience amongst those involved. New members are always welcome.
1 James Gleeson, ‘The draughtsman as artist’, The Drawings of William Dobell in the Australian National Gallery, Canberra: Australian National Gallery, 1992, p 6.
'Drawing Conclusions too' sales catalogue
30 September - 23 October 2011
WHOLE GALLERY EXHIBITION
Dare to Differ
An exhibition of contemporary quilts
presented by the Quilters Guild of South Australia
This is an amazingly diverse and colourful exhibition, featuring contemporary quilts from textile artists all around Australia. Contemporary quilt makers were encouraged to extend their horizons, leaning more to visual art and design, and linking with the title ‘Dare to Differ’.
By opening entries to interstate contemporary quilt makers, South Australian quilt makers and the general public have the opportunity to view a very high standard exhibition of contemporary art quilts. The interpretation of the quilts is left to the quilt maker.
The definition of a quilt for this exhibition is that it must be predominantly fibre, and be composed of a least two distinct layers, stitched together throughout the quilt. It must be innovative, original and of course meet the criteria of the title ‘Dare to Differ’. Entries were pre-selected from photographs submitted by the artists, with the final selection process done by two or more quilt artists at an international level.
The exhibition is presented by the Quilters Guild of South Australia, which has over 500 members. The membership is a mixed group of enthusiastic hobbyist to professional textile workers, and incorporates a large country membership with many regional groups. The Guild runs a workshop programme and brings well know practitioners from interstate and overseas to teach.
Every year the Guild holds a members exhibition. Exhibitions in the past have been exciting, diverse and of an extremely high standard. Convenor of the Dare to Differ committee, Suzanne Gummow says “It is very important that we continue to give the opportunity to the South Australian public (including all our quilt makers) to view such an exhibition held here in Adelaide”.
This exhibition ‘Dare to Differ’ coincides with a National Textile Conference “Southern Textiles” to be held in Adelaide in 4 -7 October.
The National Textile Conference is run by the Fibre Artist Network (FAN), and it will present renowned National and International Textile Artists and Tutors, and workshops suitable for all abilities.
EXHIBITION FLOOR TALKS
2pm, Friday 14 October
2pm Sunday 16 October
“What is an Art Quilt?"
View and discuss the quilts on show, and learn from Suzanne Gummow what makes a good art quilt
Free entry
2 - 25 September 2011
WHOLE GALLERY EXHIBITION
Pooled
An exhibition of contemporary artwork in various media by
Rebecca Arman, Andreas Christensen, Frances Griffin,
Karen Hammat, Kathryn Hill, Alison Main,
Wayne Mcara, Sue Ninham, Samuel Schmid,
Yve Thompson & Ian Willding
An exhibition such as ‘Pooled’ is not your usual fare; it is brimming with artistic talent that rivals any contemporary show that Adelaide has to offer. It features eleven highly innovative artists showing recent works in a variety of media and styles, including digital prints, large format paintings in oil and acrylic, soft sculpture, collage, ceramics and drawings. There is a depth to this art that demands attention.
Rebecca Arman’s art is deeply personal, but relevant to many people and situations. In essence it explores feminine energy, in relation to nature, the divine, modernity and ancient wisdom. It also explores the female creative spirit, her strengths, determination, passion and beauty. With a painterly approach, Rebecca has a tendency to let colours float and react. “I weave aspects of the natural world into the tenacity of the feminine spirit” she says, “and in doing so dissolve differences of culture and identity”.
Selected images by Rebecca Arman
Andreas Christensen was born in Denmark in 1926 and grew up there. This region was inspired by two cultures - the Nordic and the German. Their clashes from time to time resulted in terrible wars, but also enriched each other. It is therefore no surprise that with this background Andreas adopted the expressionistic art-style. Andreas uses form, colour and movement to describe his subjective feelings above objective observations. In many of his works there are elements of confrontation, which gives the special feeling of ‘Angst’ that is so common in Scandinavian and German Art.
View images by Andreas Christensen
Frances Griffin has drawn inspiration fromwhat isintriguing and unpredictableabout the natural world,since the final years of a Bachelor of Visual Arts degree at ACSA. Her background as a violinist and music teacher has alsoinfluenced her sensitivity to the use of colour, texture, rhythm and form,to convey a sonority with Nature throughpainting.
About the works for Pooled she states: These abstract works are part of my continued exploration of oil paint and its ability to convey a visceral sense of our experience of the natural world. I have adopted the use of layering, unclear edges to forms, incorporated the flow and fluidity of paint, a naturalistic palette and flattened perspective, to communicate what is primeval and mutable about the natural environment.
Selected images by Frances Griffen
Karen Hammat runs a busy arts practice from her home studio at Yankalilla, where she alternates between portraiture, abstract painting and fibre arts. “My self-built studio is one of my artworks” Karen says. “It is designed so it relates to the natural environment and the artwork produced within it.” Karen completed her BA (Visual Arts & Applied Design) in 2005, and was the top woman Vizarts graduate of her school.
Selected images by Karen Hammet
Kathryn Hill works with diverse materials to create her artworks and installations – favouring such diverse media such as paper and wax, fabric and stitching, oils and canvas. Kathryn completed her BA (Visual Arts) in 2002. She is an active member of the Red House Group, T’arts Collective and Concertina (a group of women artists exhibiting collaboratively since 2000).
Alison Main says “Love led me to Adelaide and art's labyrinth; and between dreams of Japan, I paint.” In her work, darkness is often veiled by humour. Small characters may cavort in the background, flotsam and jetsam of the mind. In her work she is often an onlooker, an outsider. Alison has a Bachelor of Architecture and a Masters of Visual Arts.
View some of Alison Main's whimsical sculptures
Wayne McAra’s current research is concerned with contemporary interpretations of gender. “I am particularly interested in the proposition of multiple masculinities as a construct of recent popular culture” Wayne says. “How this phenomenon might contrast with, inform or impact upon individual masculine identity has been the impetus for my recent work.” Wayne’s installation explores a range of masculinities and offers a means for opening up discussion about gender and socially constructed ways of being male in contemporary Western society.
Sue Ninham completed a BA (Visual Communication) in 1982, majoring in Illustration at Uni SA. She has worked as a freelance designer and illustrator for advertising, book and magazine publishing, but now devotes herself to painting. Sue is drawn to the 1950’s for her inspiration, having spent childhood summers in her grandparent’s house. “The memories of space-age splay-legged furniture, Parisian scened feature walls, fold away record players, patterned curtains and crazy paving imbue my work with a playful optimism” Sue says. Constantly evolving, her most recent work borrows less directly from these themes.
Samuel Schmid was born in Switzerland and migrated to Australia in 1985. His art is inspired by his love of science fiction, comics and animation. His work playfully explores the duality of micro and macrocosms and within that realm organic and technological; miniature and colossal; light and dark; hard and soft; feminine and masculine energy. “I am fascinated by how these realities can seemingly oppose each other and yet synergistically co-exist, both within us and outside of us” Samuel says. “I ponder the impact of this on our lives and our environment”.
Selected images by Samuel Schmid
Yve Thompson left behind a working life as a graphic designer within an architecture / urban planning environment when she moved to SA from NSW in1998. Shifting the emphasis from design to art, she graduated with honours from ACSA in 2004. Yve is a member (and Chairperson) of Central Studios in Adelaide. Her studio practice is supported and enhanced by teaching drawing and painting at TAFE (Mt Barker) and life drawing at ACSA.
Selected images by Yve Thompson
Ian Willding is a Wiradjuri man, born in Forbes, New South Wales. His brilliant, multi coloured and intricately layered paintings explore and celebrate his indigenous heritage. Graphic symbolism and text are woven together to create contemporary works that are rich in meaning and visually striking.
View Ian Willding images
'Pooled' exhibition sales catalogue
Artists from ‘Pooled’ will be in Gallery M from 2pm on Sunday 11 September, to meet and chat with visitors in a friendly, informal atmosphere. This is an exhibition not to be missed – you will remember September 2011 at Gallery M !
Meet the Artists:
from 2pm 11 Sunday 11 September
See artists from this exhibition demonstrate various techniques,
and discuss their art practice.
Free entry, all welcome.
5 - 28 August 2011
WHOLE GALLERY EXHIBITION
7teen
An exhibition of artwork in various media by members of the
Red House Group
This month Gallery M and the Red House Group are celebrating the 2011 SALA Festival period with an exciting new whole gallery exhibition ‘7teen’. 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, incorporated in 1994. This exhibition signifies the seventeenth year of the group’s operation.
The Red House Group manages Gallery M on behalf of the City of Marion, and Gallery M’s lofty ceilings and large exhibition space is perfect for such a diverse exhibition. 2011 also celebrates the tenth year of the Marion Cultural Centre, and ‘7teen’ is exhibition number 201 in the Gallery M calendar – quite an achievement for the Red House Group to have overseen 200 fantastic exhibitions in the past ten years.
Approximately ninety South Australian artists are showing their work, in a wide range of media. A number of RHG members have maintained an active interest in the Red House Group since those early years. Three Foundation members are exhibiting artwork, Billie Adams (ceramics) Anne Thompson (watercolour) and Marlie Unmuth (painting).
As well as paintings, drawings and printmaking, photography is also featured. New member Robert Griffiths is exhibiting for the first time; Janine Paris and her daughter Tessa Manning are each showing their photographic skills. Kerry Malec, Robert Miller, Leonid Olijnyk, Stephanie Schrapel are recognised photographers whose work will also be on display. Monique Sengpiel has created a photographic transfer on watercolour paper.
Textile work includes a felted jacket by Christine Beck, a textile sculpture by Denise Avery, hand weaving by Margaret Harris, and a wall hanging by Lynette Brown. Necia Magain has woven a natural fibre basket.
Timber artists are well represented with finely constructed wooden boxes by Anthony Horsfall. Mike O’Donoghue has made a wooden sculpture, and Wilhem Kurvits has created one of his beautifully crafted containers. Amanda Lewis and Erica McNicol will display hand crafted jewellery.
There are always attention grabbing 3D pieces in a Red House member exhibition, such as Roger Hjorleifson’s finely detailed hand built sculptures that are very collectable, as are glass sculptures by Barbara Davis and Stephen Skillitzi. Marty Cielens has made a multi media artist book.
Geoffrey Herbert always makes interesting artwork, and has created a terrazzo gold coin on a stand. Makram Iskandar has made a finely patterned terracotta sculpture. Jeremy Paddick has constructed a 3D plaster sculpture inspired by Lego.
With such a diverse range of artwork on show, there will be something of interest to a broad audience. Many Red House Group members are recognised and well established artists, including Alan Ramachandran, Cathi Steer, Anne Bates, Helen Doubell, John Hamilton, Helen Mickan, Ron Orchard, Margaret Slape-Phillips and Cleone Hoyle.
On each Sunday during the exhibition, artists from the Red House Group will be in Gallery M demonstrating various art techniques. This is a great opportunity to meet and talk to the artists in a friendly, informal atmosphere. Entry is free, and everyone is welcome.
Artist Demonstrations:
from 2pm each Sunday during the exhibition
Sunday 7th, 14, 21st & 28th August
See artists from this exhibition demonstrate various techniques,
and discuss their art practice.
Free entry, all welcome.
8 - 31 July 2011
THREE EXHIBITIONS
Brush With Reality
An exhibition of artwork in various media 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. The artists work in a variety of media, and mostly conventional in style.
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. Exhibitions are held several times a year to display and sell members’ work.
Over fifteen thousand of dollars has been donated to various charities as a result of raffled paintings at the group’s exhibitions. The charity benefiting this year is the R.S.P.C.A.
After thirty years the group of approximately sixty five members is still committed to fostering an active interest in painting for people of all ages – in the Marion community and neighbouring areas.
They are not a teaching group as such, but they work hard to organise guest artists for workshops and demonstrations throughout the year.
Meet the Artists:
from 2pm, Sunday 10 July
Members of the Marion Art Group were in Gallery M
for an informal 'Meet the Artist' session.
Free entry, all welcome.
On Vessels
Mixed media, artists prints, ceramics & drawings by Glenda Bowen
Glenda Bowen is a printmaker, painter and potter, who is exhibiting work inspired by boat travels, including sailing to Spain to visit the Bilbao Guggenheim Museum, with its architecture inspired by ships.
Since boats were built, people have sailed the waters of the world visiting unknown or foreign shores. In early days precious trade items were often contained in ceramic pots.
Glenda has just returned from a trip to Spain; she took prepared photopolymer plates with her which she developed as she travelled, thus gaining an immediacy of experience. “The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao was wonderful” Glenda says. “Spectacular but also a magnificent gallery space”.
Ink work featured in this exhibition will be in the form of solarplate prints and drawings. She will also show some small ceramic pieces.
Glenda has a Diploma of Fine Art & Design from Warrnambool CAE, and has studied extensively both in Australia and overseas. She is also an active member of Studio Potters SA, who are also exhibiting at Gallery M at this time. The theme of “vessels” is carried through both of the exhibitions.
Meet the Artist:
from 2pm, Sunday 17 July
Glenda Bowen was in Gallery M
for an informal 'Meet the Artist' session.
Free entry, all welcome.
On Vessels or Vassals
Classic and contemporary 3D vessles and scuplutres by
Studio Potters SA Inc.
This exhibition shows a range of classical and contemporary ceramic vessels (pots) and sculptures, by approximately twelve members of Studio Potters SA Inc.
Studio Potters was established in 1954 as a not-for-profit group for the promotion and advancement of ceramics by the exchange of information, classes, lectures, exhibitions and social activities specifically catering for the growth of the South Australian pottery community.
The group encourages artistic and professional growth among their mainly South Australian club members and provides a supportive environment in which the clay community can meet and share ideas and knowledge with other members of all levels of experience in pottery and ceramics. More experienced members are always available to mentor newer members.
At their Klemzig premises they have established an extensive library, and for 26 years they have successfully organised “hands on” residential workshops featuring nationally recognised professional potters.
For anyone interested in pottery classes this can be a great way to just create with clay and allow the mind to focus without the outside distractions, pressures and problems in day-to-day life. New members are very welcome to join at any time.
Meet the Artist:
from 2pm, Sunday 17 July
Paul MacDonald from Studio Potters was in Gallery M
for an informal 'Meet the Artist' session.
Free entry, all welcome.
10 June - 3 July 2011
WHOLE GALLERY EXHIBITION
Porcelain Pallettes
and a Medley of Mixed Media
An exhibition of porcelain painting by members of the
Australasian Porcelain Art Teachers SA Inc (APAT)
and artwork in various media by invited guests of APAT
This exhibition displays a range of on-glaze painting techniques, with lustrous kiln fired designs on porcelain, ceramic and glass. Porcelain painting was originally known as “china painting”, and is an artform in which white porcelain is transformed into an item of beauty.
Overglaze decoration is one of the most exciting areas of ceramic art today, and is crossing the boundaries with other contemporary mediums. In place of paper, canvas or wood, and using powdered mineral colours, porcelain artists paint on white porcelain, which is then fired in a kiln to approximately 800°C. The techniques and materials available are unlimited. Methods include gilding, lustres, textures and patterns; as well as the luminous colours of the multi-fired enamels in traditional and contemporary designs.
This style of art is innovative and forward moving. The traditional methods of building up the layers of colour with each fire, and adding fine raised paste decoration and gilding for example, is rich in heritage and irreplaceable. Many porcelain painters employ modern techniques, ensuring that the artform is advancing into the 21st century with new and creative concepts.
Some porcelain painters are also skilled in kiln formed glass (firing temperature over 800°C), or low fired items such as lampshades, porcelain dolls and jewellery. Some like to work with porcelain clay and create their own free form work or clay carving.
The exhibition features artwork by approximately 25 members of APAT, including well known artists Lee Sanders, Marie Sheriden, Kay Pope, Pamela Keighran and Betty Hermel. The invited guests - ‘friends of APAT’ – include Boris Franco, Roger Hjorleifson (a clay artist), Peter McLay, Andris Jansons, Ross Morgan, Pauline Shinkfield, and Di Mitchell, to name just a few. Work by both sets of artists incorporates oils, watercolour, pastels, fabric, glass and clay.
The Australasian Porcelain Art Teachers (APAT) in South Australia are committed to increasing awareness in the wonderful art of on-glaze painting and are always keen to encourage new painters to this art form. APAT members lead the world in innovation and consequently are in demand for exhibitions, lectures, and workshops both here and overseas.
Porcelain Painting Demonstrations
Gallery M: 2pm
Sunday 12 June
Sunday 26 June
South Australian members of APAT will be in attendance during this exhibition, demonstrating porcelain painting from 2pm, Sundays 12, 19 June & 26 June.
All welcome, free entry
They will be pleased to answer your queries and discuss the painting process with you.
If you are interested in classes, that can also be arranged - there are qualified teachers located throughout the metropolitan and many country areas.
For more information about APAT, visit their website at www.apat.org.au
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13 May - 5 June 2011
TWO EXHIBITIONS
Divergent Perspectives
An exhibition of artworks by the Wild Fibre Artists
Bev Bills, Gem Congdon, Margaret Harris, Necia Magain, Jackie Pearce, Charmian Quintrell, Lynne Radcliffe, Liz Steveson, Yvonne Twining & Liz Yates
The Wild Fibres group was initiated in 2005 by some members of the Red House Group, who had a common interest – fibre arts. With the passage of time the membership of Wild Fibres has gradually changed but the same core of artists has exhibited together over the last three years.
Their work covers a wide range of techniques and approaches within the broad field of fibre and textile arts, with each bringing special expertise, be it with stitching, weaving, spinning, felting, printing, and basket-making.
Work for this exhibition has come from a more conceptual perspective, with the artists encouraging and challenging each other to explore new ideas and expand their skills as they pursue their individual artistic journeys. The result is a colourful, exciting exhibition of very varied fibre works.
The title ‘Divergent Perspectives’ captures a key characteristic of Wild Fibres as a group. There will be diversity within individual art pieces; diversity within the body of work of each artist, the display and placement of work within the exhibition space also creates interest and another aspect of diversity.
There is also perspective to the artwork. Each of the artists is committed to producing high quality work, as well as sharing their interest and enjoyment in working with vibrant colours, interesting forms, unusual textures, contrasting elements, uncommon imagery and innovative surface designs.
Some of the artists work only with natural fibres, others with manmade fibres and some with a mix of anything that contributes to creating a textile with dramatic effect!
Meet the Artists
Gallery M: 2pm, Sunday 22 May 2011
A chance to talk to the Wild Fibre Artists
in a relaxed and informal atmosphere
The Closed Schools of Marion
Photographs and artefacts from the ‘Baby Boomer’ schools
(now gone) that once existed in the City of Marion
Presented by the Marion Historical Society
The closed schools are Dover Gardens Primary School, Dover High School, Glengowrie High School, Marion High School, Morphettville Park Primary School, Oaklands Park Primary School, Sturt Primary School, Tonsley Primary School, and Vermont High School.
Over the last thirty years nine schools on the plains of the City of Marion have closed.
These schools were among the largest in South Australia in their hey-day.
They were called the “Baby Boomer” schools - Baby Boomers is the name given to the generation of Australians who were born in a “baby boom” following World War II, and who were born between 1944 and 1964.
The Marion Historical Society is mounting an exhibition of photographs and artefacts from these schools, coinciding with the SA175 History Festival.
Come and see the restored 1960s desk, inkwells and pens; compare photos of classes across the decades; and read reminiscences. School uniforms and other memorabilia will also be on display.
A feature of the exhibition is a large brass school bell, formally of Oaklands Primary, but when that closed, the bell went to Dover Primary School. There are various stories about the origin of the bell – maybe the full story will be discovered during this exhibition !
Local film-maker Ash Starkey will be creating a short documentary about the closed schools, using interviews with teachers and past students who will share their memories.
Anyone who would like to have a chat to Ash about their own stories and experiences will have the chance to do so – Ash will be filming all afternoon on the launch day of Sunday 15 May, and will also be at Gallery M on Sunday 22 May.
Share Your Memories
Gallery M: 1-4pm, Sunday 22 May 2011
Film maker Ash Starkey recorded experiences
at any of the “closed schools”
This exhibition was supported by the City of Marion, and was a SA History Week event.
About Time: South Australia's History Festival, 1 to 31 May 2011.
8 April - 8 May 2011
WHOLE GALLERY EXHIBITION
Journey
An exhibition of paintings and pottery by Bill McSwain
Bill McSwain’s artistic journey has two parts.
His adventure started in 1969 when he left Australia by ship for England and South Africa. His wanderlust took him on to Italy, then overland to London. After working and exploring Scotland, Ireland, England and many European countries, Bill returned back home through the Panama Canal, stopping off at Tahiti.
Then again in 1974, adventure beckoned him to ride the wild seas around Cape Horn, stopping off at Argentina and Brazil. Bill based his stay in London, and this time was one of study, painting at the National Gallery and copying the Old Masters as part of the study programme.
His drawing lessons included studying ceramics and painting down around the coast of Cornwall. Once Bill returned home, he put into practise all his newly honed skills in painting, drawing, pottery. He also began teaching and exhibiting in Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide.
In 1981 the sirens beckoned him again, and he set off to the South Pacific to work and live, ending up in the Gilbert Islands Kiribati; working as a Youth Trainer on a UN funded programme. Bill returned to Australia in 1986 with his new family to continue painting, potting, drawing and teaching.
The second part of Bill’s journey started twelve months ago. This time, with a blank canvas, he set out to discover the wonders of colour, shape, form, light and reflections. Bill used his knowledge of the past to guide him on his way.
Bill’s paintings include landscapes, portraiture and a stunning set of large works on canvas featuring Australian birds. His pottery too, is large – created using a pottery wheel and hand building techniques. Some of his glazed pottery works also feature decorative elements, both figurative and abstract. “I have pushed the boundaries of shape and form on the pottery wheel” Bill says.
He describes his style as Modern Impressionism, reflecting on the wonder of images seen on past adventures.
Bill gained his Diploma of Graphic Arts at the Caulfield Institute of Technology
He then worked as a designer for Channel 9 in Melbourne, as well as a freelance Graphic artist/illustrator.
Bill’s teaching career has included positions in the Victorian and South Australian Education Departments, plus numerous private school appointments including Woodlands Girls Grammar, Westminster and Muirden College, teaching art & design.
He has participated in numerous group and individual shows around Australia.
Bill hopes you will enjoy your journey through this exhibition.
'Journey' was opened at 7pm, Friday 8 April
by the Hon Iain Evans MP, Member for Davenport & State Shadow Treasurer
Meet the Artist
from 2pm, Sunday 17 April
Bill McSwain was in gallery M to chat with viistors in a relaxed and informal atmosphere.
11 March - 3 April 2011
WHOLE GALLERY EXHIBITION 
hmmm....
An exhibition of artwork in various media by members
of the Red House Group Inc.
This new exhibition features artwork by members of the Red House Group Inc, a not for profit artist managed organisation that began in 1994.
The Red House Group manages Gallery M on behalf of the City of Marion.
Approximately 90 artists are displaying their work in this whole gallery exhibition, in a variety of media.
As well as paintings, drawings and photography, there is an amazing array of 3D artworks including glass, ceramics, timber and textiles.
Sarah Bradley is showing a paper collage, and new member Lisa Howe has made a free standing leadlight sculpture of a rooster, on a slate base. Makram Iskander has made a terracotta sculpture with intricate patterning and iron coloured glaze.
Long time Red House member Geoffrey Herbert, who always makes interesting artwork, has created a free standing indoor/outdoor cement sculpture with an Aboriginal theme., inspired by the ‘Devil’s Marbles’.
Timber work includes a unique box made by Anthony Horsfall in the shape of a cricket bat, that also houses a cricket ball. A wooden box by Willem Kurvits features a hand carved koala design, and Mike O’ Donoghue has made a turned timber sculpture of lilies.
Jewellery is also featured, with Japanese artist Hisako Kokubun displaying her hand crafted beaded jewellery with an Asian influence; Anthea Smith has also made hand crafted earrings and a necklace. Laura Jean Bowman has made three stunning necklaces under the theme ‘enchantment’.
Ceramicist Anna Couper has made a intricately decorated ceramic torso on a stand; Barbara Davis has created a brilliantly coloured glass sculpture using Bulls Eye art glass imported from America. Internationally recognised galss artist Stephen Skillitzi has mad a very cheeky figurative sculpture in glass and brass, titled “Bad Hair Day”.
Kaare Nygaard has created a stunning hexagonal set of sushi dishes in fused red and blue glass, complete with a clear glass tray. Bev Whitington has created a wall hanging pottery piece. Well known porcelain artists Lee Sanders & Marie Sheridan once again are showing their beautifully decorated onglaze porcelain.
Textile work includes a hand knitted wrap by Loris Abercrombie, and brilliantly coloured felt vessels and felted scarves by Jan Edwards. Liz Yates has made a natural fibre basketry sculpture. Maria Hilder’s beautifully detailed machine embroidery ‘Natural Born Killer’ is sure to bring a smile.
Photographers include Jane Kennedy, Noel Maddock, Kerry Malec, Leonid Olijnyk, Don Oswald, Janine Paris, sisters Deborah & Laura Bell, Stephanie Schrapel and Rob Adams.
Of course, there is a huge range of 2D paintings, prints and drawings, from abstract through to realism, and everything in between.
This is one show that should not be missed.
'Hmmm....' was opened by David Barrett, Coordinator of the Marion Cultural Centre
on Friday 11 March.
11 February - 6 March 2011
WHOLE GALLERY EXHIBITION
First Exposure
This whole gallery exhibition featured the work of the graduating class of 2010 Advanced Diploma of Photography (Commercial).
The opening night included the graduation ceremony and the presentation of student of the year.
Nineteen students are graduating, from the two year, full time course. For this years’ graduating class the course started at Croydon campus, then moved to Tea Tree Gully campus in the second semester of this year. With the move to Tea Tree Gully the students were treated to brand new facilities including computer rooms and studio space.
In conjunction with the Advanced Diploma of Photography, students are given experience with industry professionals, including mentorships. Many of the students have had work in local publications; some photograph weddings on a regular basis, work on movie sets and are flown to take photos of sporting events.
The exhibition includes four to five photos from each student showcasing their best work from the past two years of study. The name of the exhibition ‘First Exposure’ is a note to the fact that this is the first exhibition for most of the students and also the first exhibition as a graduated class ‘exposing’ the graduates to the world. ‘Exposure’ is also a reference to taking a photo, exposing the film.
The works in the exhibition are extremely diverse. They range from fashion and portraiture to sport, advertising and documentary editorial. One student, Clayton Fisher, was awarded South Australian Student of the Year at the Australian Institute of Professional Photography South Australia awards. This is an extremely prestigious award and they are very proud to have him in their class. He won for his beautiful landscapes, most of which are wide panoramas taken in South Australia but also the desert near Abu Dhabi where his parents live. Many other students won silver awards at the SAIPP’s for work they had produced during the course.
As well as producing their final major portfolio this semester the students were also required to fundraise and organise this exhibition. This included a quiz night, multiple movie night and a bowling night. It was a big endeavour for people who some have never been in exhibition let alone organised one.
14 January - 6 February 2011
TWO EXHIBITIONS
The Art of Truth, Compassion & Tolerance
Paintings by a diverse group of artists from around the world, with a shared vision. Some have experienced stark deprivations of rights while living in China..
These artists paint not for the market, but for a greater vision; with the hope that they will provide a window into the often untold Chinese experience at the beginning of the 21st century.
The Art of Truth, Compassion, Tolerance is art with a deep inspiration. It is art that aspires to inform and educate, to inspire and transform, to change and reshape. The exhibit should appeal to anyone interested in the relation of art to the social-political world; in suffering and the human condition; or in universal and spiritual themes.
Those concerned with the contemporary world, in particular China, will find special importance in the issues raised therein. Much of what the art depicts and considers is currently unfolding in China. The exhibit is, above all, timely and relevant.
First conceived in 2003, The Art of Truth, Compassion, Tolerance exhibit consists of pieces by a diverse group of eighteen artists from around the world with a shared vision. That vision, articulated by the project’s organizer, Canadian sculptor/painter Zhang Kunlun, grew out of the crucible of his own poignant experiences in China as a prisoner of conscience due to his practice of the Budda School discipline of Falun Dafa.
Falun Dafa is a practice that has evolved from the ancient Chinese concept of cultivation, where one fundamentally and genuinely improves oneself from within. Through the study of natural universal laws, one understands how to live in harmony with others and the world at large.
It was the release of Professor Kunlun Zhang from a Chinese brainwashing centre in 2001 that spurred communication between the artists, many of whom have never even met face to face. In the course of sharing experiences and understandings over three years, the ideas for the exhibit began to take shape. Realist oil painting, or New-Renaissance, was chosen as the style for its narrative capabilities, accessibility and, above all, its simplistic purity. The exhibit would encompass four main themes: harmony, adversity, courage and justice.
By 2004 works that are part of the present collection began to be produced.
Artists include: Xiaoping Chen, Dr. Xiqiang Dong, Kathy Gillis, Yuan Li, Daci Shen, Weixing Wang and Dr. Kunlun Zhang.
Dr. Kunlun Zhang is one of contemporary China’s most accomplished sculptors. He is a graduate of the Sculpture Department of the Art Institute of China, and specializes in oil painting and Chinese painting alongside sculpture. He has served as Director of the Sculpture Institute of the Shandong Art Institute, as well as Director of its Sculpture Research Institute. Zhang is the recipient of many awards, and has participated in many exhibits in China and around the world. He or his works appear in Who’s Who in the World, The Encyclopedia of Outstanding Chinese, and Collected Works of the World’s Sculpture, among other publications. In 2001, Zhang was a prisoner of conscience in China.
Xiaoping Chen is an accomplished painter who was born in China and has lived in Canada for several years. She studied watercolor and ceramics at the University of Mariana in 1997, and had her work featured in several private exhibits; her work has been chosen for reproduction in a variety of media, including in art calendars, as book illustrations, and book covers, among others. Chen was the recipient of many awards in China. In 1998, she was named an “Outstanding Artist” by the governor of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. She was formerly Art Director of the Community Arts Council in Richmond, British Columbia, of Canada.
The artists in this exhibition seek to not gain profit or fame, instead to make a statement, and show the truth of Falun Dafa and the persecution happening in China right now. In painting from their conscience, and for a greater good, they do not bow to state sanctions. Their works range widely, from placid inner visions to harsh political landscapes, and combine to provide a unique window into one important, and often untold, part of the Chinese experience at the beginning of the 21st century.
The works grapple with what is both particular and universal about the human condition, resulting in a timely gesture toward cross-cultural understanding. Viewers will find the exhibit at once informative, moving, and inspiring.
More information about the artwork in this exhibition
More information about Falun Dafa
Exhibition Floor Talks were held 2pm, Sunday 23 January
& 2pm, Sunday 30 January
Visitors learnt more about the relation of art to the social-political world; in suffering and the human condition; or in universal and spiritual themes.
Call of the Beloved
An exhibition of traditional and contemporary paintings featuring Persian calligraphy by Shahin Azadegan
Dover Gardens artist Shahin Azadegan came to Australia from Tehran, where she had studied carpet design a & decoration, architecture and miniature painting. In South Australia, Shahin continued her studies, gaining a BA (Visual Arts and Applied Design) at O’Halloran Hill TAFE. She combines a contemporary approach with traditional art techniques to create unique art pieces, working in a range of media, and on surfaces from vellum to more familiar boards and canvases.
A Beloved is one who continuingly utters momentous and commendable words and whose aim is kindliness and goodwill. A Beloved is one who is the bearer of constructive and joyful tidings and is the creator of life.
Poets and Prophets are true Beloveds of society as they, with constructive and creative words cause the minds of beings to be nurtured and led forth through their guided path. They raise the awareness of the citizens of society when these beings are heedless in slumber.
Shahin treasures these teachers and for this reason entitles them the ‘Beloved’. Shahin says “I have applied their words in my pieces and this is why I call this exhibition ‘Call of the Beloved’. In this exhibition, writings from Khayium, Hafiz and Baha’u’llah, the Prophet-Founder of the Baha’i Faith, have been woven into the pieces.”
Selected images from 'Call of the Beloved'
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