Local Kiama artist Greg Martin Vale is set to exhibit his latest collection, "Inspired by Kiama," at the Old Fire Station on Terralong Street from 10–16 October. 

His exhibition promises to showcase the vibrant interplay of light that defines his work, capturing the essence of Kiama in ways that most people might overlook.

Each morning, Greg goes out on a walk around Kiama, his eyes attuned to the play of light across buildings and landmarks. Where others might see the ordinary, Greg sees the extraordinary – a fleeting moment of illumination that transforms the everyday into something remarkable. It’s this keen ‘artist’s eye’ that defines his style and sets him apart.

In June of this year, Greg's talent was recognised at the Kiama Arts Society Show, where he received a ‘Highly Commended’ prize for one of his paintings. His work draws comparisons to Australian artist Jeffrey Smart, who was celebrated for finding hidden beauty in the seemingly mundane. Much like Smart’s meticulous urban landscapes, Greg breathes life into otherwise nondescript street scenes, making the light itself the subject of his art.

A recent holiday took Greg to Venice, a city renowned for its artistic inspiration. While Venice’s allure is undeniable, Greg insists that Kiama holds its own unique charm, finding it not at all necessary to leave his hometown for inspiration. 

“I am inspired by the distinctive scenes I come across in Kiama,” he says.

Ever observant, he walks with his camera in hand, ready to capture the moments he wants to preserve on canvas.