The stories behind some of the region’s most talented creatives are being celebrated in the third and final iteration of a popular Council initiative which explores the vibrant arts and culture community in the Western Downs.
The ’10 Artists’ series uses videography and photography to capture the inspiration and passion behind some of the region’s best artists, offering a virtual platform for the arts community to expand their audience.
Councillor Kaye Maguire, Western Downs Regional Council Spokesperson for Community and Cultural Development, said the project was about celebrating the great talents in our community and exploring their lives through their art.
“It’s the people that make it here in the Western Downs and this project is about uncovering our talented creatives and sharing their passion with the wider community,” Cr Maguire said.
“Council is dedicated to creating active, vibrant communities and this project is a fun, interactive way to support the arts and cultural community we have here in the region and raise the profile of these talented individuals, while inspiring others to embrace their creative side.”
The artists featured include Kylie Bourne, Hilary Coulter, Sarah Davis, Seth Gerke, Meg Noack, Chris Osborne, Christopher Rigg, Jayne Rohrlach, Alicia Streten, and Kay Vidler. Each video runs for 1-2 minutes and gives an insight into the creative lives of each artist, captured by videographer Clancy Sinnamon.
Chinchilla resident and featured artist Christopher Rigg said being a part of the 10 Artists program felt like acceptance of finally being considered a real artist and was excited to showcase his art to a broader audience.
“It’s easy to make art but labelling yourself an artist is a difficult step. Having the support of the local council and community in this program is quite liberating. The 10 Artists program promote an artist’s practice and helps one transition from the studio to a broader audience, while helping them leave their comfort zone,” Mr Rigg said.
“It’s quite daunting to show your work and then try and explain the work. The team associated with this program have made the process easier by asking the right questions and guiding the artist throughout the entirety of the program. The support given by this team has been invaluable.
“There are many types of art and not all types may resonate with all members of the community. By sharing 10 different artists across a wide range of mediums and thought processes, individuals in the community may find something that resonates with them outside conventional art movements.”
The videos will be shared on Council’s corporate social media channels starting May 2022 and hosted online via the Western Downs Arts website, promoting the arts community into the future.
The 10 Artists: Finale will also feature in its own exhibition opening 28 July 2023 at Dogwood Crossing, Miles as well as in a virtual 3D exhibition to be hosted on the Western Downs Arts website.
