Experience ‘Grow’: A sustainable farming story told through art

The exhibition will be on show at Cardinia Cultural Centre (40 Lakeside Boulevard, Officer) from 2 August to 22 September 2024. Admission to the exhibition is free, and no booking is required.

Featuring powerful photographs, complemented by imaginative artworks and props, the exhibition depicts the rewards and dreams for sustainable agriculture and local farmers in Cardinia Shire. Collectively, the display offers a visually compelling narrative that bridges the present and future of this vital industry.

Earlier this month young people were invited to submit creations to the exhibition, challenging them to produce artworks aligning to the theme ‘Creating a sustainable, cutting-edge farming and food sector’.

The theme incorporates the growing need for advancements in technology and creative solutions to feed our future generations amidst climate change and population growth.

Cardinia Shire Mayor Councillor Jack Kowarzik expressed thanks to everyone who contributed artworks to the Grow exhibition and commented on the exhibition’s allure.

“Thank you to the lead artists, Nathan Younghusband and Clinton Plowman, and all contributors to the exhibition – who’ve all outdone themselves. This exhibition is a powerful and creative way for our young people to express their own interpretations of the current agricultural and farming landscape and explore solutions to the modern issues facing the industry, and our community at large.

“I think the exhibition will appeal to a diverse audience. Not just for art enthusiasts, this exhibition has grit and tells the stories of our local farmers. It’s thought-provoking and will spark conversations on the broader opportunities for sustainability and innovation in our agricultural industry for greater food access and security for everyone,” Mayor Kowarzik said.

Photographer and videographer for the project, Nathan Younghusband, reflected on the importance of visual storytelling in this industry.

“Considering the rich diversity of the agricultural industry in Cardinia Shire, it is crucial to honour the hardworking individuals who contribute to our community and extend their impact beyond its borders,” Nathan said.

Project collaborator and local multidisciplinary artist, Clinton Plowman facilitated art workshops throughout Shire to help young people capture the essence of the industry through a creative lens.

“Nurturing the imaginative minds of our youth to invent creative solutions to modern problems within the agricultural sector was a fun and intriguing challenge,” Clinton said.

The ‘Grow’ exhibition is part of the Futureproofing Farming in Cardinia Shire Project.

The umbrella project is a collaborative effort between Cardinia Shire Council and VicHealth under its Local Government Partnership, supporting a sustainable future for agriculture. It contributes to several key objectives outlined in the Cardinia Shire Liveability Plan, the Council Plan, and the Community Food Strategy. These include promoting local employment, addressing youth unemployment, improving access to affordable and nutritious food, and tackling food insecurity.

Futureproofing Farming in Cardinia Shire will be delivered over three years from 2023 to 2025.

For more information about ‘Grow’ or other exhibitions at Cardinia Cultural Centre, visit www.cardiniaculturalcentre.com.au/exhibitions or call 1300 887 624.

For more information or enquiries about the Futureproofing Farming in Cardinia Shire project, visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/futureproofingfarming, email [email protected] or call Council’s Customer Support team on 1300 787 624.