Artists seek support from shopkeepers

The Multi Arts Confederation has sent a letter to shopkeepers in Woy Woy and Umina, asking them to support local artists by displaying art work in their shops.

"The Peninsula has many artists with no permanent venue to display their work, so we are looking at alternative ways of increasing interest in the cultural life of the Peninsula and promoting sculpture and paintings," according to secretary Ms Margaret Hardy.

She has invited shopkeepers "to become part of a new event where local shopkeepers display the work of local artists in their shops".

"One or two pieces of art, either sculptures or paintings, would be displayed in each shop depending on the available space.

"The pieces would be shown on either a plinth or easel provided by the artist or in some other way appropriate to the shop.

"The artists would assume responsibility for their own pieces of work.

"We would prepare a map and list of names showing locations of shops participating in the program and actively promote the event in our newsletter, newspapers and other sources throughout the Central Coast.

"An opening reception would be held.

"The event would benefit local artists by providing them with a venue for their work to be seen, local shopkeepers by giving people an extra reason to go into their shops and the local community by enhancing their cultural life."

Ms Hardy said that a name and date for the event had not yet been determined.

"At this stage we are seeking expressions of interest from shopkeepers," Ms Hardy said.

"We are interested in running this as an annual event."

For more information, telephone Leila Desborough on 4344 1810 or email sculpi@gmail.com.

Those interested can also telephone Margaret Hardy on 4369 4534 or email margarethardy1@bigpond.com

Press release, 16 Jul 2007 Leila Desborough, Multi Arts Confederation