April 7, 2023
Kingaroy’s Blue family and friend Leanne Hicks have taken over the Kingaroy Art Gallery for the month of April.
Sisters Cassie Eyears and Mandy James (nee Blue) have never exhibited before, but it was the death of their brother Mac which inspired them to hold a family exhibition of their combined works.
Mac, who died in 2020, started painting in his late teens. He was also a brilliant bass guitarist, playing with local band Shadow Play.
Mandy told southburnett.com.au the family wanted Mac to receive the recognition for his artwork that he had never enjoyed during his lifetime.
His works are on display in the hallway at the gallery.
Mandy’s works adorn Gallery 2. She has been painting for most of her life but has recently been exploring collages.
Cassie’s artworks are in Gallery 3. She first picked up a paintbrush just before the COVID pandemic struck after being invited to attend a workshop put on by Bunnings.
She is now “obsessed” with creating artworks.
The family’s friend Leanne Hicks has works on the walls of Gallery 1.
Leanne said life had been a dark grey with only a glint of light shining through before she started painting.
“I didn’t know how to express my emotions. Art became my therapy and healing,” she said.
These days Leanne paints for pleasure as well as therapy.
The exhibition, dubbed “Contrasts”, will be on display at the Kingaroy Art Gallery until April 27. Entry is free.
Congratulations Mandy and Cassie and posthumously your late brother Mac, on a wonderful exhibition of your artistic talents. Obviously that talented trait runs in the family – well done. I personally believe that painting or any kind of art is gratifyingly therapeutic.