December 14, 2012
Wondai Art Gallery’s new art space – named appropriately enough “The Studio” – was officially opened by South Burnett Mayor Wayne Kratzmann at a small ceremony this morning.
The extension to the current art gallery is a new stand-alone building constructed by K&P Homes that blends into the heritage style of the complex.
Inside, the interior has been fitted out as a multi-purpose area for the many artists and community groups that are expected to use it.
The bright, airy building features tiled floors, air-conditioning, “appropriate” lighting for art projects and versatile shelving that can be easily rearranged to cater for everything from laptop computers to sewing machines.
“It will be used by the whole community – the whole of the South Burnett community – day and night,” Wondai Art Gallery curator Elaine Madill said.
“We already have a diary and are taking bookings. We have tai chi, yoga, water colours and an RADF handbuilt pottery workshop that we hope will be approved.”
Tables in The Studio space will also be offered for $5 to sellers of “hand-made or home-made” items on Wondai Markets days, and the South Burnett Youth Choir will use the space as a practice area.
Mayor Kratzmann said the art gallery was the “jewel in the crown” in Wondai. It wouldn’t have come into being without the drive of the initial curator Alison Iszlaub and could not exist without the assistance of the many volunteers.
However “The Studio” would not be here today “without the drive of one person … (current curator) Elaine Madill”.
The $108,000 project has been funded by money raised by the gallery, a $30,000 contribution from the South Burnett Regional Council and a $50,000 grant from the Queensland Arts Council.
Bookings for The Studio can be made by phoning the Gallery on (07) 4168-5926.
- Related article: Local Artists Feature At Gallery
|
|
|
|
|
|
