-
Artist Profile-Hobie Porter
Interview by Jadeine Phelan The earth is our only home and as a society we really could be doing much more to raise awareness on the environmetal issues we face. Hobie Porter is one of the many talented artists who uses his creative skills to create works of art which makes us question the way we treat our environment. His compelling collections often reveal the parasitic relationships we hold with our planet. Growing up in a childhood with parents who hold non-comformist values has definitely had a positive influence on artist Hobie Porters’s life and […]
-
Super Poet, Furious Cowgirl and Slam Ma’am-Emilie Zoe Baker
Interview by Helena Den Exter. Visiting the North coast recently was local girl EMILIE ZOEY BAKER to perform at the Byron writers Festival as part of the literary cabaret Liner Notes which presented a poetic tribute to David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust. Emilie is an Award-winning Australian poet, spoken-word performer and as her website says “ Super Poet, Furious Cowgirl and Slam Ma’am”. She performs regularly at arts and literature festivals and has travelled extensively. Emilie teaches poetry and slam in schools and in April 2014, joined the core faculty at Canada’s Banff Centre. Emilie is also […]
-
Taking a peek through the looking glass
Missy Morrin talks with collage artist Rochelle Summerfield. Next exhibition 7th October- 1st November 2014 at Brenda May Gallery, 5 Danks Street Sydney. When did you first start to get interested in photography? It was part of my art practice but really as scanning, (I loved my scan of a flathead belly) photomedia and photo etching (a traditional etching process called photogravure). It wasn’t till my masters in 2005 that I began to use a lot more photography. I took quite naturally to digital SLR and love the fact that I can delete and get […]
-
One man’s journey through music
From a teenage tour around Europe playing classical violin, from pub gigs to corporate events on festival stages across Australia, Paul “Rabbit” Robinson talks to Hannah-Lee Smith about his musical journey. “A committed artist should be prepared to swim in a river of their own blood to get to a show on time, the show must go on…” Born in the heart of the Tweed Shire at Murwillumbah Hospital on the 24th of May 1963, it was the start of a wonderful adventure for this little baby boy. Yet, sometimes we ask ourselves, […]
-
Help our homeless youth
Hannah-Lee Smith interviews Gerina Appo from St Joseph’s Youth Service Tweed Heads NSW “We all lock our doors now because the streets aren’t safe anymore” an elderly woman once said. But why? The answer lies in the fact that today’s society isn’t as stable and families are not as involved as they were 20 years ago. Teenagers often come from broken homes, are victims of violence, abuse and neglect, they suffer from behavioural issues such as ADHD and mental illness, have poor diet, they hang out with the wrong group of friends or simply don’t […]
-
Coorabella Studio-photography in fashion
Coorabella Studio is Nyree Mackenzie – creative director, photographer, stylist and producer. Known for producing high quality fashion editorial work as well as numerous campaigns for Tree of Life fashion label, Nyree has set up in the Byron Hinterland taking on local clients such as Colin Heaney. Nyree’s photography combines pop colour with vintage glamour, artistic flair, a little bit of sass and a bohemian twist. Inspired by poetry, love, desire, art, fashion, innovation, red lipstick and music, artistic Nyree is also a singer/songwriter who has collaborated with producer/programmer Jochen Mueller to create their own […]
-
Back to Our Roots
It’s been well over twenty years since Keven Oxford decided to put together a festival of blues acts and share his passion for music with Byron Bay locals. Since the late seventies, Keven Oxford, his wife Karin Woods, and their good mate Dan Doeppel were responsible for bringing an outstanding lineup of international and national touring artists to the north coast of NSW. Regular shows at The Lismore City Hall, Ballina Theatre and The Everglades (now Byron @ Byron) treated locals to a calibre of music usually reserved for Australian capital cities. In 1978 Keven […]
-
Has Art Lost Its Way?
The ancient Greeks embraced great philosophies and guiding principles in their art and culture. This gave birth to democratic concepts for the world and laid the foundations of maths and science. They developed a balancing philosophy of the “infinite” as well as a mechanical reality, saying, beauty is in the infinite. They invented the terminology Phi (the golden ratio) and the Pi mathematical term to demonstrate the mathematics of infinity, which associate the concept of infinite vanishing points used in arts for perspective. Their unifying philosophies of reality were held to balance the concepts of […]
-
Colouring with Water
Local watercolour artist John Lovett comes from an artistic family. Raised in Cooma, NSW, he attended Newcastle’s National Art School in the early seventies, before starting a family of his own. John is now based in Currumbin on the Gold Coast and makes a living painting and teaching others at workshops in his studio, as well as in Europe and America. Interview by Christopher King How did you first become involved with watercolours? I first became involved with watercolour about 30 years ago. I used it more as a way of recording information – pen […]
-
Manipulating Traditional Practices
Working with word, textile, installation and recycled materials, Lucille Martin is a nationally recognised contemporary artist who has been exhibiting and included in curatorial shows for more than twenty years. Lucille’s work moves audiences and stimulates strong emotional response and she is often asked to speak about the issues raised. Lucille is a communicator using visual dialogue to take the viewer on an intimate journey that will resonate strongly with them for a long time to come. Lucille Martin provides a refreshing and honest insight into her life’s passion as an exhibiting artist. Inteviewed by […]
-
Kingscliff Design Student Success
The Australian Museum has sponsored The Fashion Less Waste (FLW) design competition since 2009. The annual design event is open to both adults and high school students with the main aim of the competition to encourage a more sustainable fashion industry – to help to fashion a less wasteful world. Entrants were encouraged to use materials that are not curbside recyclable or notorious for harming animals as litter. Another purpose of the competition is to develop each entrant’s design skills and to foster an appreciation for natural history and encourage further research. This year’s theme […]
-
Making Art out of Plastic
Narani Henson was born in New Zealand, where a love for the ocean was instilled at an early age. Always endowed with a creative intensity across many different genres, Narani’s talents have been strengthened by formal training at Sydney Gallery School, where she completed a Diploma Of Fine Arts, and through a Degree Of Fine Arts at Curtin University. Now based in Byron Bay and working from her private studio, Narani’s focus is to connect the viewer with the beauty of the ocean to provide a positive experience. Narani aims to create a feeling of ownership of […]
-
Swell Sculpture Festival-Review in photos
Every year in September, the sandy strip along the foreshore at Currumbin Beach comes alive in a visual spectacular of form, colour and movement. Celebrating its tenth year, the Swell Sculpture Festival showcases sculpture in all shapes and sizes made from a diverse range of materials and entices hundreds of thousands of visitors to attend this popular coastal community event. Swell has become a leading artistic event with artworks from both local and international artists and is now the largest sculpture exhibition in Queensland. Director of the Swell Festival , Natasha Edwards worked closely this […]
-
Behind the Curtain
The theatre can be a magical place. Whether observing a group of retired thespians reading Shakespeare in the local church hall, witnessing a sultry cabaret show or enjoying a glitzy production on the Great White Way, show business has something to offer everyone. What the audience doesn’t see, however, is all the work that happens behind the scenes. For many of us, working in the theatre is a labour of love. Every production is part of a unique art form that exists only for the time it plays, similar to Nicholas Cook’s view of classical […]
-
Karma Kids Build Calmer Adults
Currumbin Beach Queensland – where families frolic on golden sands. Home of dolphins playing in crystal clear waters, pumping surf breaks, iconic rocks, cafes and shops, a wildlife sanctuary and Karma Kids Club. In the peaceful environment of Currumbin Beach, Karma Kids are introduced to calmness techniques, mindfulness and creative play which encourages them to a potential lifelong relationship with the wisdom of yoga. Talking to Angela Fitriadi, co-founder of Karma Kids Club Australia, I discover that she has a vision to build a healthy society, not just for her own children and their future, […]
-
As Clear As Mud
Isn’t it true that at times we like to run away and hide in our caves just like ancient man? Today our need for shelter and security, remain vital elements in our bid to survive in this tenuous world and during our time on planet earth we should stop every now and then to reflect. Our reality is that we are living on the edge. Well…on the crust really. Subject to the fierce elements of nature as well as the terrifying prospect of facing each other in conflict, no wonder we want to bunker down, […]
-
Bleach 2013
The Gold Coast has long been renowned as the global home of surf and beach culture and the Bleach* Festival was created to celebrate this culture in all its forms. With over forty events and across sixteen days, the Bleach* Festival features art, music, theatre, food, fashion, lifestyle and surf. Held annually in February and launched before the Quiksilver and Roxy Pro, the 2012 opening event saw the streets lined with fashion market stalls, a stage with tunes rocking all day, street theatre and workshops. It also featured the world premiere performance of The Surfer […]
-
Creative Hotspot – Cafe D’bar
Cafe D’bar at Point Danger is the perfect spot to chill out on the southern end of the Gold Coast. Situated high on a hill, right on the QLD and NSW border, this delightful Cafe boasts panoramic views of the entire coast, overlooking iconic surfing location ‘D’bah’ through to Snapper Rocks and Rainbow Bay. Among the fishing boats and freighters, patient Cafe D’Bar patrons might also spy the humpback whales passing between June and November. The D’bar is a café and art gallery situated in a circa 1925 three bedroom home built in the ‘Queenslander’ […]
-
The Gold Behind the Glitter
Tucked away behind the glitter of the Gold Coast, Rabbit + Cocoon is a not-for profit initiative providing artists with affordable workspace rent and incredible opportunities to connect, collaborate, market and show their artwork. Fiona Munro talks with Creative Directors Emma Milikins, Jolie Hertzberg and Mariam Arcilla. FM:How did you develop the idea of a creative precinct? EM: The precinct idea is ever evolving and the idea of what the space is and will be is always changing. It begun with one of the directors being offered the physical space by a friend, who then […]
-
Designing the Dream
By Elle Hayter There is a lure about Byron Bay, a sunshine that reflects on the lush green hills as you approach, a crystal that winks on the perfect sets curling in at The Pass. The peaceful, natural beauty seduced many a hippie surfie in the early seventies into making the Bay their home and they developed a culture that epitomized freedom. The ‘spirit’ of Byron Bay became a magnet for like-minded carefree creatives and as they came, so to, the bohemian flavor evolved. The sense of beauty and place that is Byron Bay has […]
-
The Analogue Creative Digital Conference
The Analogue Digital Creative Conference is a guiding light for all students studying the creative industries within regional Australia. Featuring inspiration from artists, directors and founders from the worlds most sought after companies, including Brendan McKnight, editor of desktop magazine and Numskull, (pictured) an Aussie based artist, working in painting, sculpture, illustration and outdoor murals. Showcasing eight presenters, three panels, an events dinner and an events after party. Book now for the Analogue Digital Creative Conference to be held on the Gold Coast on 12th October 2012. Website: Analogue Creative Digital Conference
-
Creative Hotspot – Sheoak Shack Gallery Cafe
Soak in the laid back ambience, listen to soulful music and enjoy delicious food on the banks of the Tweed River at Fingal Head. The Sheoak Shack Gallery Cafe is a place that oozes creativity, from it’s eclectic style of decor, the fabulous musicians who stop on their way along the east coast and the gallery which offers a space for established and emerging local art talent to showcase their work. Gallery Open Wed to Fri-11am – 5pm, Sat 11am – 6pm , Sun 9.30am – 6pm. Ph 07 55 231130 Website: The Sheoak Shack […]
-
Creative Hotspots – Babalou
A different experience every time, Main Room, Balcony and private Bathing Box Booths, Pacific Ocean views, unique pieces of vintage and contemporary designer furniture, industrial fans, polished original timber floorboards, shelves piled with vinyl records to be played, red velvet couches, produce-oriented dining excellence. Open Wed to Sun 7:30am to late. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Level 1, 102 Marine Parade, Kingscliff NSW (Above Kingscliff Beach Hotel) Babalou
-
Bangarra Dance Theatre presents TERRAIN
Queensland Performing Arts Centre The timeless wonder and spiritual resonance of Lake Eyre Internationally acclaimed Bangarra Dance Theatre presents a fusion of contemporary dance and storytelling commissioned by artistic director Stephen Page. Described as a hymn to country, TERRAIN transports us to Lake Eyre the place of Australia’s inland sea: one of the few untouched natural waterways in the world. Bangarra explores the relationship of Indigenous people to country and how landscape becomes a second skin. Beyond the ancient vastness we travel through drought and deluge, we witness the ephemeral transformation of place where nature […]
-
Still @ the Centre
Still @ the centre is a beautiful space dedicated to your art, creativity and inspiration. A place in which to bring your dreams, share the technical issues you encounter in making those come true so that, together, we can find the creative solutions to suit your art and your budget. Hand in hand with the centre becoming a creative space, came the need for…art supplies. We took our time, compared, studied and researched and now have a truly extensive range of the finest art materials from all over the world. We are also happy to […]
-
Lismore Regional Gallery
Lismore Regional Gallery is the fifth oldest regional gallery in New South Wales supporting the Lismore City, Byron Bay, Bangalow, Nimbin, Lennox Head, Casino and Kyogle communities. Lismore Regional Gallery began in 1953 as a result of the formation of the Lismore Arts Trust. The Gallery’s program reflects the social, historical, creative and cultural aspects of the region. With a collection featuring significant Australian artists such as Margaret Olley, Lloyd Rees, Albert Namatjira, Thea Proctor, Lindy Lee and Kevin Connor and well-known artists from the Northern Rivers region such as Jan Davis, Bronwyn Bancroft, Angus […]
-
Wilson Visual Arts Award and Exhibition
A vehicle to showcase the talent of local and national artists and to promote Lismore’s role as a leading arts destination. Established in 2012, The Wilson Visual Arts Award, under the auspices of Trinity Catholic College, is a vehicle to showcase the talent of local and national artists, to recognize top artists for their achievements in the field of visual arts, and to expand, promote, and document Lismore’s role as a leading arts destination. Open 10am – 6pm 23-25 August 2012 Opening night Friday 24th at 6.30pm tickets $30 bookings essential (02) 66276600 Trinity Catholic […]
-
The Con Artists Handmade Markets
First Saturday of Each Month The Con Artists Handmade Makers Market is a new craft market featuring local artisans in collaboration with the Northern Rivers Conservatorium’s monthly ConCerts. The markets are held on the front lawn of the Conservatorium at the corner of Magellan and Keen Streets in Lismore, northern NSW on the first Saturday of each month from 10.00am. Northern Rivers Conservatorium corner of Magellan and Keen Streets, Lismore www.theconartistsmarket.blogspot.com.au
-
The Channon Gallery
Located in the picturesque village of The Channon in the Byron Bay hinterland of northern NSW, The Channon Gallery is committed to the exhibition of fine Australian contemporary art to delight and provoke. The Channon Gallery compiles, exhibits and engages in the discourse of the human condition;it’s beauty and challenges. The gallery nurtures the exploration of contemporary culture through the thought and perception of the arts community and those who provide input into it. Until 5 August 201 Studies in Harmony and Tension Paintings and sculptures by Stuart Cussons manifest a simple aesthetic that belies […]
-
Art on the Move
A great chance to see some local art and chat with the artists in a relaxed environment. Art on the Move is a group of established and emerging artists from Northern NSW, who exhibit at the Bangalow markets, every fourth Sunday of the month. The group exhibits a diverse range of fine art prints, paintings, glass objects, ceramics, photography and sculpture. Members include, Karyn Fendley, Caroline McKay, Leonie Jackson, Jacqueline King, Pam Patterson, Marika Bryant, David Kill, Nicole Zupanovich, Garry Barden and Soren Carlbergg. Bangalow Market Sundays Moller Pavilion at the Band end of the […]
-
Northern Rivers Community Gallery
The Northern Rivers Community Gallery is a community exhibition space created through the refurbishment of the heritage listed former Council Chambers in Ballina. The gallery provides a centre for the arts and crafts in the region, with four gallery spaces that can be rented for exhibitions and cultural activities, and a learning centre. All artists, arts organizations and community cultural groups, particularly those in the Northern Rivers Region of NSW, are invited to submit a proposal to present exhibitions of paintings, sculptures, cultural heritage, fabric and textile art, pottery, ceramics, woodworks, jewellery, photography etc. Contact […]
-
Curious Art Gallery
The Dance of Life features work by Dianne Smith with works by other Curious Artists. ‘The exhibition celebrates the journey of life with my father Floyd Lombardi and uncle Ray when I was living at the Navajo Trading Post adobe house on the Four Corners of America Navajo Reservation. The Rio Grande ran behind the Trading Post located just an hour from Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA. It was early 1950’s and I was eleven years old. I grew up hearing many stories and gained insights into the Navajo culture and way of life which […]
-
Earthlings From Outer Space
By Jeff Dawson Not all that far out from Roswell, deep in the Black Rock Desert of Northern Nevada, tens of thousands of Earthlings slip through a portal. A kind of worm hole portal between the default world and their Home, the Playa. Many of these beings are not reptilian, many are not aliens, most do not look like you or me, well, not like me anyway, they are ‘Burners’. For eight days a year they cluster to recharge, then disperse back to the four corners (?) of the planet. Almost blending in with […]
-
Interview with Barb Suttie
The Tweed region is known as the ‘Valley of Contrasts’ It offers an assortment of visuals to those inspired by nature… from oceans to forests, to the mountains and the river. With such an array of views to paint, sketch, or write about, it is no wonder that a great many artistic folk call it home. It’s a crisp June afternoon as I take the delightful drive along the Tweed Valley Way on my way to interview Murwillumbah artist Barb Suttie. Cruising beside the Tweed, I notice the silver ripples of a high tide gently […]
-
State of Play
CEO of Arts Northern Rivers, Peter Wood gives an insight into the direction our region’s creative industries will take over the next three years. Arts Northern Rivers is the peak body for the arts and cultural sector in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, Australia. We are part of a statewide network of regional arts boards, dedicated to building positive futures for regional, rural and remote communities in New South Wales though the arts and cultural development. Arts Northern Rivers is a triennial client of Arts NSW and supported financially by the seven […]
-
Tweed River Art Gallery
Coming exhibition Beauty from Nature showcases art by the Scott sisters. Experience exquisite illustrations of butterflies, moths, caterpillars and plants by two of 19th century Australia’s most prominent natural history artists. Beautiful and intricate, this stunning exhibition features delicate watercolours, which form a fascinating record of the lives of Harriet and Helena Scott. Uncover the captivating story of these two extraordinary women, whose love of nature, and tremendous skill in rendering its beauty, enabled them to distinguish themselves amid the male-dominated world of 19th century science. Exhibited are selected watercolour paintings created between 1846 and […]