Art brings community together
“A year in the making and worth every minute”, reflects Anglicare’s Tameeka Crawford on the art exhibition that marked International Women’s Day.
Program Manager North West Tameeka and her team joined forces with Strahan Primary School to develop the exhibition as a way of showcasing the artist talent of women living on the West Coast.
The organisers are grateful to Braddon MHA Anita Dow MP for officially opening the exhibition, and the ladies of the Strahan CWA who put on a magnificent community luncheon.
“We had more than 200 patrons through the doors, including Chihuahuas and filmmakers,” Tameeka reported.
“Some exhibitors were lucky enough to sell their artwork but most importantly, friendships were forged as women from around the West were able to connect and support one another.
“I lost count of the number of exhibitors as we had people ringing up late Sunday night and even on Monday morning [the day of the exhibition] asking if it was too late to put a piece in.”
Anglicare CEO Chris Jones was delighted to attend with his wife, Chris.
“There were some thought-provoking pieces, including a sculpture about body image and a child’s drawing of the many women in her life who cared for her,” he said.
“It was a wonderful forum for reflecting and sharing. As one of the exhibitors said, “the real treasure is in community connection”.
Here are a just a few of the many comments that were left in the guestbook:
“Very talented ladies. A great exhibition with a large variety of crafts. Has inspired me.”
“Thank you for providing the opportunity to be amongst so many talented and inspiring women artists. Our resilience grows stronger as we listen to each other—keeping the flame alive for women of the future.”
“Gorgeous pieces by the great women of the West Coast.”
“Wonderful! What a lovely day to celebrate. Thank you for the opportunity—new friends, conversation and wonderful appreciation of local talent.”
“I enjoyed seeing the products of everyone’s passions and in particular I enjoyed reading everyone’s stories. A very enjoyable experience and hoping you do it again.”
You can view a selection of the exhibited works below – just click on the thumbnail to expand the image.
Main photo: Organisers, exhibiting artists and the Strahan C.W.A. joined forces at the opening of the International Women’s Day art exhibition at Strahan.
