External groups create artworks at Woy Woy and Umina

Two groups from outside the Peninsula have been instrumental in having Central Coast Council install large chairs at Woy Woy and Umina waterfronts as public artworks.

The chairs were constructed by the Men's Shed at The Entrance and painted by a team from Fairhaven's Australian Disability Enterprise team at Pt Clare.

No Peninsula community groups appear to have been involved in the project.

Despite this, Council director Ms Julie Vaughan claimed the project "has brought the community together".

"I'm excited to see a project from Council's eMerge youth program in partnership with community groups come to life.

"This program supports has provided an opportunity for participants to explore their creativity and showcase their talents to the wider community," Ms Vaughan said.

The chairs have been installed on the "Woy Woy wharf foreshore" near the playground in Brick Wharf Rd and next to Umina Surf Life Saving Club in Sydney Ave, Umina.

Ms Vaughan said: "The artists from Fairhaven drew inspiration for the Big Chair artwork design from the natural surroundings of Woy Woy and Umina including the unmistakable identity of the waterways that land lock this peninsula.

"The water graphic consistently identified as the strongest common element across the whole Peninsula is embedded in the area's identity - the wharf in Woy Woy sits calmly on the shores of Brisbane Water.

"Umina Beach is all about fun in the sun, surfing the waves and enjoying life.

"The essence of the Central Coast - freedom - is depicted through the fluidity and connection of the graphics."

Council administrator Mr Dick Persson said it was great to see "this creative endeavour come to fruition by the community despite the interruption by Covid restrictions this year".

"The Big Chair art program has not only provided a creative outlet and important social connection for the creators but has also delivered an engaging art installation for the rest of the community and visitors to enjoy," Mr Persson said.

SOURCE:

Media release, 17 Dec 2020

Website, 17 Dec 2020

Julie Vaughan, Central Coast Council