Gifford Arts Program artists on exhibition

Art can tell a powerful story, and thanks to an all-inclusive community-based program run by Uniting Harrison, a talented group of artists are making their mark locally and abroad. 

The Gifford Arts Program is a highly successful community arts program that provides people of all abilities with a creative and supportive environment for artistic exploration and personal expression. 

The group of about 20 emerging and seasoned artists meet weekly to draw, paint and create together in their purpose-built art studio at Gifford Village Community Centre in Croydon North. 

Jane Daveron, Community Engagement Officer at Uniting Harrison, said it provided a warm and welcoming space that was open to everyone, regardless of age, background or ability. 

“Our youngest artist is in their 30s while our oldest is in their 80s, which highlights that the art space provided is as much about the conversations taking place and sense of social inclusion as it is about the art,” she said. 

A unique exhibition celebrating the artists’ work – Arts from the village: seasons in our environment – will be on display until Friday 13 July at Maroondah Access Gallery. 

Ms Daveron said some of the artists featured in the exhibition had previously exhibited in the annual prestigious State Trustees CONNECTED art exhibition, as well as being selected for exhibitions in London, Berlin and New York. 

For others, it will be their first time exhibiting their works in a gallery. 

“Everyone who attends Gifford Arts loves the feeling of being part of a community and all our artists are excited to have their works exhibited. For many of our artists, this will be their first opportunity to exhibit their works in a gallery to a wider audience, including the local community,” she said. 

“Gifford Arts is unique as it provides a great opportunity for anyone in the local community to be part of a like-minded and enthusiastic group and includes people from all ages, backgrounds and abilities – it successfully blends people with and without disabilities with a common interest and purpose in creating amazing visual art.” 

Under the mentorship of Artur Lyczba, a professional artist for more than 30 years, participants are encouraged to explore their creativity in a relaxed, fun and supportive environment. 

David Buller, a founding artist of the group, says he enjoys “the diversity of the group – it is never boring and the artworks produced are remarkable”. 

Sarah Francis, a regular participant, likes the people she creates with and the relaxed, friendly environment – the joking, the banter. She’s inspired by other’s creativity, and considers the art group itself an artwork. 

Artist Aurora Gill says: “Artur always challenges us to improve our paintings. It gets us out of our comfort zones and makes us grow as artists by learning new techniques. Creating art is relaxing and makes me feel like I’ve accomplished something.” 

Arts from the village: seasons in our environment is on display until Friday 13 July 2018. This exhibition is free and everyone is welcome to attend. The exhibition is supported through Council’s Arts and Cultural Grant program.

Maroondah Access Gallery, Maroondah Federation Estate, 32 Greenwood Avenue, Ringwood. Open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm (closed weekends and public holidays).

For further information phone 9298 4545 or visit the Arts in Maroondah website.