Just in time for the World Environment Day on 5 June, Shellharbour City Council launches its annual “Wild About Shellharbour Nature Photography Competition.”This year’s theme, ‘Connecting with Country’ encourages participants to get outside and explore the beauty of Shellharbour’s abundant species. Open to Shellharbour City residents of all ages, the competition runs until Sunday, 14 July. Participants can enter the 17 years and under, or the 18 years and over, categories.Prizes up for grab include cash and professionally printed canvases of the winning images from local business PhotoMart.Chris Homer, the Shellharbour City Mayor, said that looking through a camera lens could encourage a sense of curiosity towards our natural world.“From lush green rainforests to a pristine coastline, our city has many diverse landscapes with an array of plants and wildlife ready to explore.”“It doesn’t matter whether you are an amateur or professional, all photography skill levels are welcomed and encouraged to have a go. You could even round up your family or friends andmake an adventure out of it,” he said.For an entry form and more information about the competition rules, visit Wild About Shellharbour 2024.

As a South Coast based interior decorator, I have always got my eyes open for new ways to bring the rich hues of the region’s colours into our homes. Enter ‘Colour Drenching’, a very 2024 term for painting all surfaces in a room the same colour.  I’m talking walls, skirting and frames, doors and woodwork, cornices and ceilings. The results are impactful and non-negotiable, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it feels like too much if you choose a colour you truly love. Take your cues from our area for a result that connects your home to its location. The emerald greens of Gerringong’s rolling hills or the bushy greens of Kangaroo Valley, the lavender haze of a distant mountain, blues of the ocean, golden sands of the coastline – you get the idea. There is no need to limit yourself to your street address, think about the colours of what you love across our whole region.Another element to consider is colour psychology. Theoretically at least, blues are calming and can carry away your worries. Reds are warm and can feel like a big hug. Neutrals rest the eyes. Yellows can make you feel happy (or ill, depending on your feelings about yellow).Be aware that the same colour applied throughout a room will still have variation, so it is rare that the effect will be box-like. Flat ceiling paint will absorb the light making it appear lighter, whilst low sheen and semi gloss paints can look darker depending on how much light they reflect. The easiest thing about colour drenching is that it is guaranteed the room will look fresh and contemporary, no matter which colour direction you choose. Asha ArdillSouth Coast ColourVisit the website here:https://www.southcoastcolour.com.au/Check out Asha's profile here:https://www.southcoastcolour.com.au/team-item/asha-ardill/

The GLaM Museum in Gerringong has recently closed its Scouts exhibition. However, don’t worry if you missed it, as the exhibition will now be on display in the main museum for the foreseeable future.The opening was a wonderful event, attended by many former Scouts, Cadets and Girl Scouts. One highlight was a Queen's Scout from 1963 to 1967, Marelyn Embry. She arrived in her original uniform and reminisced about her youth, including receiving a letter from the late Queen Elizabeth II.Artist Trudi Voorwinden, who has been painting since she was 10 years old, spent a week restoring a mural of the Scouts in Gerringong. She carefully preserved the original colours and vision of the artist. Many of the Scouts depicted in the mural have now been identified, and the mural can be seen at the GLaM Museum.Merelyn Emery in her old uniformPresident of the Gerringong and District Historical Society, Colleen Jauncey, expressed gratitude at the exhibition opening. "Thank you to the parents who kept uniforms, memorabilia, and badges. They have enabled us to put this exhibition together," she said.David Hindmarsh, an ex scout himself, also spoke, pondering why the Scouts struggle today. He questioned whether it’s due to the electronic age, a rise in self-interest, people leaving the area for work, or perhaps the popularity of surfing as a hobby. Trevor Nixon, Neil miller, David Hindmarsh, Gary Rodger’s, Ken Mitchell, all ex scoutsHe also noted the historical gender differences in Scout badges, with women's badges focusing on domestic skills including ‘Matron Housekeeper’ and men's on outdoor challenges. David, who joined the Scouts in 1954 at age nine, shared a humorous story about finding frozen uniforms after a soccer game. He laughed, saying he is still tying knots to this day.Despite these challenges, there is still a Scouts group active in the area. Reuben Frost, pictured with his Scout leader Debbie and friend Hugh, meets with the Kiama Scouts at Kiama Harbour on Tuesday afternoons. New members are encouraged to join.Reuben Frost (Gerringong Scouts), Hugh Hassall, Debbie Gibson.This exhibition preserves invaluable memories and history, thanks to the effort of everyone involved. Their work ensures these stories will be preserved for future generations. Thank you to all who contributed.

Shellharbour City Council’s Aboriginal interpretive play space, Yirran muru, wins two awards at the recent 30th annual National Trust Heritage Awards 2024.The annual awards ceremony celebrates outstanding practice and excellence in conservation of Aboriginal built, natural and cultural heritage.On 17 May, the play space won the Education and Interpretation Category, and Highly Commended in the Aboriginal Heritage Category.It is another milestone for Yirran muru, securing first place in a non-Aboriginal award category and seeking state recognition for its contribution to education and interpretation.With the addition of these two news awards, Yirran muru has received a total of four awards since it officially opened in April 2023.The Dharawal Language Wheel. Photo credit: Shellharbour Civic Centre.In April, the play space received the Diversity and Inclusion Award at the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (IPWEA) Excellence Awards. It has also won the 2023 Landscape Excellence Awards.“The Aboriginal interpretive play space is an incredible addition to our city. To be recognised with four prestigious awards is absolutely wonderful,” says Shellharbour Mayor Chris Homer.“It is an amazing achievement and a credit to the collaboration between our local Aboriginal community and Council staff.”Yirran muru, which means ‘many pathways’ in Dharawal, is an authentic Aboriginal interpretive play space, which shares local Dharawal culture through Aboriginal methods of learning. It is located in the native gardens behind the Shellharbour Civic Centre.Encompassing landscapes from high in the escarpment to the sandy beaches of the Illawarra, it is designed to take people on a cultural journey following the historical seasonal movements of local Aboriginal people.“Yirran muru is a celebration of Dharawal culture, a unique space in which local Aboriginal culture is shared with the community through play and nature,” Mayor Homer says.“It’s a beautiful space. If you haven’t yet visited Yirran muru, please go and check it out.” 

A full moon guided visitors through The Enchanted Forest in Blackbutt Reserve on Thursday evening, 23 May 2024, as they were given a preview look. The event, which officially opens on Friday night (24 May), runs through to 16 June and promises to transport visitors to another world. Illuminated like never before, this year's theme Lost Astronaut captivates and beholds, thanks to a combined light- and soundscape that creates an ethereal, interactive cosmic universe here on earth. Visitors wander through the forest, following the lost astronaut’s journey to repair his spaceship, each section a brilliant display of lights, lasers and special effects. The immersive audio enhances the feeling of celestial surrealism, and each bend in the path reveals a new awe-inspiring surprise. Tickets are selling fast, with many people eager to discover this thrilling symbiosis of nature and technology. The Enchanted Forest offers a unique experience for these cold winter evenings for families, friends and space enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or simply looking for a magical night out, be sure not to miss The Enchanted Forest. Tickets are on sale at The Enchanted Forest. 

Sevenmarks Gallery in Kiama is gearing up to unveil a rare and captivating exhibition, From the Top Road from 1 June to 20 July. This exhibition promises to be a celebration of connection, culture and creativity, showcasing artworks from two neighbouring communities in Arnhem Land, Northern Territory. From the Top Road is more than just an exhibition, but takes the views on an immersive journey into the heart and soul of Indigenous Australia. The title itself comes from the primary route into Arnhem Land, granting access to the Bula’bula Arts Centre and the Maningrida Arts Centre, both vibrant hubs of creativity and cultural expression. Attendees will experience spirit forms, fibre works and intricate woven pieces created by local artists deeply connected to their land, their ancestors, and their traditions.  “Our culture lies in the ground… It lies in the earth, but we are bringing it out…where we can see it.” said Kuninjku artist Ivan Namirrkki.These artworks weave together stories of the natural environment, reflecting on the profound importance of ceremonies, songs, language and family in Indigenous culture, constructing a cultural journey and an open invitation to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Indigenous art and heritage. 

The captivating works of two local artists, Ross Meaker and David Graham, were displayed on walls of The Imaginarium in Shellharbour throughout the recent Mother’s Day weekend. David GrahamRoss has a longstanding passion for photography, only further invigorated by the introduction of digital photography and his retirement. His collection of landscape photography showcased the best from the snowy Jindabyne surrounds to the coastal sunrises of Narooma and Lake Conjola. With Ross’ eye for detail and texture in his work, his photographs transport views through a visual journey of nature’s wonders. This was Ross’ first exhibition, and he admitted eagerness at the idea of his work reaching a wider audience for the first time. Ross MeakerTeaming up with Ross was David, whose artistic journey began as a child drawing maps. With encouragement from his mother, Bronwyn, David’s passion transformed into a lifelong pursuit. David’s meticulously crafted pencil and ink drawings are a stunning display of historical preservation. The collaboration between the two artists proved to be a success, drawing praise from visitors who flocked to The Imaginarium. Joan and Rob from Kiama visit the exhibitionAs patrons explored the exhibition space, they were met with the diversity of styles and subjects on display, from the sweeping landscapes by Ross to the intricately drawn architectural pieces by David. Both artists respectively put on a stunning show of colour through sunsets and geometric patterns. 

Local artist, activist and original Freedom Rider, Machteld Hali, continues her tireless efforts in supporting her community and advocating for the rights and empowerment of First Nations people. With the launch of her latest art fundraiser at The Tempest Gallery on 17 May, Machteld hopes to raise the remaining funds for her phenomenal $20k contribution to education for First Nations people at the University of New England. Machteld is guided by a strong desire to help, grown from some of her own experiences of hatred and discrimination as an immigrant in this country. It began in 1965 when Machteld participated in the Charles Perkins Freedom Ride run by Sydney University. The Freedom Ride was a 15 day bus journey through regional NSW and has since become a defining moment in Australian activism, now taught about in schools. The Freedom Ride was intended to spread awareness for the poor conditions that indigenous people were living in NSW at the time. Machteld recounts the Freedom Ride and the things she saw during the journey from a time where indigenous people were excluded from movie theatres, swimming pools, RSL clubs, etc. Many were living in unsafe and unhealthy conditions in reserves and missions in ‘shanty towns’. The fundraiser is aptly named “No More Eggs and Tomatoes” as a nod to the events that occurred at the Moree swimming pool. Machteld and the group of Freedom Riders were run out of town by angry locals throwing eggs and rotten tomatoes, spitting and fighting the peaceful protestors. Culminating in their bus being run off the road and their bus driver abandoning the group, leaving them stranded in the middle of nowhere. The art fundraiser will feature a diverse selection of framed artworks generously donated by Hali herself, her students and a range of local artists. Notable contributions include pieces from acclaimed artists such as Pro Hart, Auguste Blackman, Robyn Sharp, Becky Guggisverg, and Kerrina Swords.  The evening will provide food, drink and entertainment and the opportunity to bid on the art in an auction. Currently Machteld has raised $16,125 for the scholarship administered by the University of New England, with the goal to hit $20k. Machteld has hosted at least 10 workshops, some free, encouraging students to donate their work to two previous exhibitions that have helped contribute to the funds.  In 2015, the University of Sydney hosted a reenactment of the Freedom Ride with 19 of the original members on board. The changes in the communities they visited were palpable and a complete turn around to the hostility the group had faced fifty years earlier. Healthy indigenous children lined the roads into town, and the townspeople welcomed the riders with appreciation for their past efforts. Despite progress, challenges still persist and many issues related to identity loss, intergenerational unemployment and substance abuse are still prevalent in regional towns like Moree. Machteld is motivated by these ongoing struggles and believes ‘education is the golden arrow’. Reflecting on the challenges addressed by the original Freedom Ride, Machteld emphasises the importance of acknowledging and rectifying past injustices. Those interested in attending the fundraiser or contributing to the cause are encouraged to contact Machteld by email at [email protected]. Details of the gallery open night can be found here. Through collective action and unwavering dedication, Machteld aims to make a meaningful difference in the lives of First Nations people, one brushstroke at a time. In a bid to continue the legacy of the historic Freedom Ride of 1965, the artist continues to be a voice for our indigenous people, reminding us all of the importance of shared community and culture.

“It’s finally my turn to shine,” laughs Foxground artist Robyn Sharp. “I’ve always been the director's wife, now I’m the star.”The director Robyn refers to is her husband Lindsay, the former head of Sydney’s Powerhouse Museum and world-renowned museologist. While her comments are tongue-in-cheek, the curation of this show, held in the Gerringong Art Gallery adjacent to the Gerringong Library and Museum (GlaM), is all Robyn’s with her husband happily following directions on where to hang her stunning artworks. Paintings and drawings which use a range of mediums, including pencil, acrylic and charcoal and capture the beauty of the Australian bush in all its variations; fire, flood and in full bloom.It is the elements that have inspired Robyn’s third show Dreaming of Dharawal Days. Much of her recent work focuses on the local landscape, at Bundanon, Jervis Bay, Moreton National Park, and of course her beloved Foxground - home to the hidden gem that is her Cedar Ridge Art Studio.It is where Robyn and Lindsay watched in terror as ash from the 2019 bushfires rained down on them, and a raging inferno edged ever-closer to their property. Thankfully their home and Robyn’s studio was spared.“But after the fires I had to create a lot of artwork to get it out of my system, I dealt with the trauma through art,” she explains, pointing to a detailed depiction of a grass tree.“This is one of my favourites. I painted it shortly after the fires when Lindsay and I went for a walk in the Moreton National Park. The bush was deathly silent, there were no birds, no animals but the grass trees were in full flower. It was so heartening to see such beautiful regeneration after the fires. It gave me hope.”Hope is something we could all use more of, given the extreme weather events that have lashed the coast in recent years.“With climate change comes more intensive weather systems and we get flooded in on our property at least once or twice a year now,” says Robyn. “When you live in a beautiful place you are often at the mercy of the elements.”But she wouldn’t trade her picturesque studio for any other in the world, and she has had a few; in the United States, Canada, England and a “little flat in Paris”.“One of the benefits of being the director’s wife is that I could go to art school in Chelsea (during Lindsay’s stint as the director of London’s National Science Museum in the early 2000s). I had some incredible teachers and mentors who shared their knowledge of figurative drawing and sculpture during that time,”But Robyn credits the free university scheme under Gough Whitlam’s government for kickstarting a long and illustrious career as an artist.“I won a scholarship to the National Art School in Sydney, under the then Whitlam Government’s free university education scheme. I had a living allowance of $10 a week for food and board, can you believe it,” she asks incredulously. It is this sense of wonder, of how far she has come as an artist, that endears the artist to members of the community who poke their head into the gallery as she sets up her Dreaming of Dharawal Days exhibition, the first show to be held in the Gerringong gallery space. A husband and wife offer to help Robyn hang one of her works and walk away with a breathtaking landscape before her show has officially opened. Dreaming of Dharawal Days will be on display at GLaM to April 24, before moving to Cin Cin’s Wine Bar May 7.

Entries are now open for the Kiama Art Society’s 45th Annual Art Exhibition, to be held at The Kiama Leagues Club in July. This is the Art Society’s major event, which draws entries each year from local artists, the South Coast, Metropolitan Sydney and beyond. Prize money this year is $10,000, with the major “Best in Exhibition” prize of $3,000. Prizes are awarded in Landscape/Seascape, Local area, Abstract, Still Life, Portraiture and Figurative. Works in these sections can be in any medium. There is also a special prize for watercolour. “The exhibition is a wonderful display of varied and interesting art, ranging from traditional to abstract and contemporary” said Helen Pain, art society president. “This is a great way for artists to have work hung in a professionally presented exhibition which will be viewed by hundreds of visitors and local art lovers. There is something for everyone across a wide price range, and each year many works find new homes.”The exhibition is sponsored by many local business, including major sponsors Kiama Leagues Club and Kiama Municipal Council. The exhibition Opening function will be on June 7th, Opening hours 10am to 5pm, June 8  to June 16th. Entries forms can be downloaded from the website kiamaartsociety.org.au. Entries close April 30th, 2024. For further information you can contact Helen Pain at 0432 232 054 or by email [email protected]

The walls of Minnamurra Cafe are lined with Brian Scott’s incredible photography from early April and until early May. An ex teacher and Kiama Downs resident, Brian brings a very local presence to the cafe. Brian’s debut exhibition, Kiama Through Local Eyes, is a bright and vivid perspective that offers a stunning insight into our local landscapes and environment. Not only can patrons go to the cafe to enjoy the art and the atmosphere but they also have the opportunity to buy the photographs on display. The project is an innovation by Expressive Art Wall.  The exhibition will run until 13 May so get down to Minamurra to see some amazing shots and grab a cup of coffee. Keep a look out for Brian’s incredible sports photography in The Bugle both in print and on our digital app. We know all the sports teams love logging in after a big weekend to see the latest. 

The Kiama Show Society has announced a new spin on the classic portraits section of the annual art show, asking entrants to create a piece of work featuring an important figure from the area who defines the spirit of Kiama. The initiative has been badged Kia-Bald and will be incorporated into the adult art section at next year’s Kiama Show.Subjects should be well known for their work in arts, sports, community, civic, or business groups. Permission must be sought from subjects beforehand. The Show Society has announced this theme with plenty of time for participants to prepare their materials and ideas. With generous cash prizes up for grabs for first and second place as well as the People’s Choice category, the competition is sure to stir community interest. Entries close on 20 January, 2025, giving entrants plenty of time to coordinate their efforts in time for next year’s Kiama Show.

The Bugle’s amazing photographer Brian Scott is set to unveil his inaugural photography exhibition at Minnamurra Cafe on Monday 1 April. With 15 incredibly eye-catching pieces to line the walls, Brian is excited to have his work on display for the public to browse and purchase his work. The collection boasts some incredible shots of the stunning local landscapes that Kiama, Minnamurra and surrounds can provide. The bright display will take audiences on a visual journey with Brian’s  keen eye for detail and a long career in photography that has allowed him to develop the skills necessary to produce the high quality of work that he so consistently produces. Brian says his favourite thing to photograph is anything unpredictable. He loves the rodeo, the surf, and sports and these interests have helped him to develop some impressive skills behind the camera - his action shots are unrivalled. He has worked for The Bugle for four years and in that time has contributed over 5000 shots to the newspaper. With a long list of photography achievements and accolades throughout his career, this upcoming exhibition is sure to delight audiences. He’s known around the community as the friendly face behind the camera. He has an extensive list of incredible stories and experiences he has been able to witness through his photography. Visitors to the Minnamurra Cafe can expect to be immersed in the world as Brian sees it, each photograph telling a story of passion and dedication to his craft and his community. 

This weekend the streets of Kiama, Gerringong and surrounds were bustling with people making their way around the exciting events across the area. The Bugle was lucky enough to make it to several of them. The NSW Seniors Festival kicked off on Monday 11 March and continues to Sunday 24 March, the program is available here with a number of events organised to celebrate the two-week festival.Gerringong Rotary Markets were a hit at the Old School Park, luckily the rain was held at bay until pack up time. Across the road at the Fern Street Gallery, Carolyn McNally impresses with her Floral Tempest collection, coupled with some incredible works by various local artists. GG Rotary MarketsFloral Tempest Fern St GalleryThe Lloyd Rees Revisited exhibition at GLaM continues until Thursday 21 March, drawing in plenty of crowds. The history buffs made their way to the Kiama Library to listen to Dr. Karl James’s insights on A Day in the Life of a War Historian. Dr. Karl James Nearby at Kiama’s Masonic Hall vinyl enthusiasts were able to browse the Record Fair, sorting through a treasure trove of records available.The Old Fire Station, a constant source of exhibitions and markets, played host to the Curiosity Shop. The display of charcoal art, wearable pieces, candles and digital works are available to browse and purchase until Wednesday 20 March. Curiosity Shop Old Fire StationSunday sees the Seaside Markets come alive at Black Beach, Kiama boasting incredible art, jewellery, food and entertainment to be enjoyed.There’s always something to do, whether it's exploring the local markets, indulging in art exhibitions, checking out the local eateries, the area is never short on community spirit.Check out our What’s On page for continuous updates of what you can get up to next weekend! 

‘Art’s not about imitation, it’s about representation - presenting something already known back in another form.’ Lloyd Rees (via his son Alan)Artist Kerry Suttonberg with her 'Highway to Berry' An eclectic, colourful and lively group of more than 100 attendees packed into GLaM’s exhibition space on Thursday night, for the Gerringong & District Historical Society’s “Lloyd Rees Revisited” A Night at the Museum event. Proceedings opened with a rousing Welcome to Country by Indigenous artist and Elder Auntie Jodie Stewart. There were messages of thanks to many: including Bobbie Miller, who in 2013 instigated the concept with a three-day festival celebrating Lloyd ‘s connection to the local area; the Society’s patron Sandra McCarthy OAM; Louise Croker of South Coast Arts (which provided a grant that helped fund the exhibition); and talented and hard-working curator Sue Blanchfield, who described the exhibition as ‘A contemporary study of the landscape that we love, in memory of Lloyd’.  Artist Heather Philpott with her painting 'Omega Light'The exhibition is an homage to Lloyd’s The Road to Berry (1947) - 63 paintings by 28 local artists who admire his work. An interesting mix of styles, media, various local settings and aspects - traditional, contemporary, realistic, abstract, dreamy, oil, watercolour, pencil, acrylic, lino block print, collage etc across combinations of hills, plants, trees, coastline, roads, dwellings and including two striking indigenous works by Gerringong-based Wiradjuri artist Kay Andonopoulos. Charming guest speaker and architect Richard Leplastrier AO, a great friend of Lloyd’s, and extremely fortunate to have been his student at the University of Sydney; every Wednesday for 5 years, delighted and amused the group with stories of Lloyd and their time together in the local area. Speaking of both the GLaM and the exhibition, Richard was ‘deeply inspired by what you’ve all done here.’Alan Rees (Lloyd Rees' son) who opened the exhibition, with exhibition curator Sue Blanchfield Lloyd Rees was teaching into his nineties. A very youthful 90 plus himself, Lloyd’s son Alan, came up from Tasmania (with his wife Jancis) to open the exhibition. The couple manage Lloyd’s estate and copyright, and have catalogued all his work. Of the word ‘Revisited’ in the exhibition’s title, Alan remarked ‘He’s never unvisited me, he’s been a constant.’Also on exhibit in the foyer, Lloyd’s 3 wonderful colour palettes (courtesy Bill Barbour, Lloyd’s nephew) and newspaper clippings, letters and other memorabilia (courtesy of Astrid Quinn). In the library is a complementary and imaginative collection of The Road to Berry inspired works by Gerringong Primary students.The exhibition confirms the existence of a strong and diverse contemporary arts community in the area with a large attendance and a proliferation of red stickers.The Exhibition is open 8-21 March from 10am- 3pm every day except Mondays.Guest speaker - architect and close friend of Lloyd Rees, Richard Leplastrier AOArtist Leon Sadubin discusssing his 'Lloyd's Curve at Dusk'Artist Marilyn Hawkes with her 'The View from Mt Pleasant'Artist Penny Sadubin with her impressive collage of the Rees family cottagesGerringong Public School Art Enrichment students' work

The Rowan Collective 24 exhibition, held at the Old Fire Station in Kiama, featured contemporary photography by four local artists.The exhibition featured the work of Kiama residents Rowan Hollingworth and Olga Baldock alongside Wollongong locals Geraldine and Brian Lefoe. Olga Baldock’s experimentation with in-camera multiple exposures and multimedia techniques demonstrated a refreshing approach to photography, displaying images that were both visually stunning and thought-provoking. Rowan Hollingworth demonstrated his mastery in digital creation and his ability to transform ordinary subjects into works of art using floral themes, all with a touch of the surreal.Geraldine Lefoe’s skillful use of natural light and the use of a technique called Intention Camera Movement (ICM), which blurs long exposure images, captured serene beach scenes. In contrast Brian Lefoe created striking black and white compositions with geometric elements to add depth to his landscape scenes. Overall, the Collective 24 exhibition, with its array of styles and techniques, was a testament to the power of contemporary photography and the depth of creative talent in our region.

The Kiama Woodcraft Group recently hosted their annual showcase, spotlighting the talents of its approximately 20 active woodworking members. Each member displayed their unique woodcraft practices, producing awe-inspiring pieces that blend functionality with artistic beauty.The members, offer a diverse array of creations that cater to various tastes and preferences. The gallery continues to evolve, with new works unveiled at our monthly club meetings. If you missed the exhibition and are interested in purchasing or commissioning pieces you can do so from the Woodcraft website. A highlight is definitely the people’s choice award – a creation from a block of wood! The talent is phenomenal!

Nestled amidst the serene beauty of Foxground, an artist’s enclave lies hidden, known to only a select few who stumble upon its treasures for years. Robyn Sharp, a quietly remarkable artist, has been weaving her magic in this picturesque haven, creating art that speaks volumes about her personal journey and the landscapes that inspire her.What makes Foxground so enchanting isn’t just its breathtaking valley and coastal views, but also the hidden gems like Robyn Sharp tucked away ‘far from the madding crowd’! Robyn’s works adorn the walls of this secluded retreat in both her gallery and home. Garden sculptures with a view!Robyn’s artistic journey spans decades, dating back to when her daughter was born in 1988. Since then, she has been showcasing her creations, evolving her style, and delving into various mediums, including sculpture. Her formative years were spent in London, where she honed her skills in figurative sculpture along with life drawing and painting. It was a period enriched by the vibrant art scene of the city, where Robyn immersed herself in the creative energy pulsating through its streets.Attending art school in Chelsea proved to be a pivotal experience for Robyn, where she says she was fortunate to have remarkable teachers who imparted invaluable knowledge and insights. Their guidance laid the foundation for her artistic prowess, shaping her distinctive style that seamlessly blends different genres and materials, from nudes to landscapes to deeply personal pieces.Teaching stints in Sydney and Los Angeles further enriched Robyn’s artistic journey. However, it was her idyllic retreat in Jamberoo, acquired in 1979, that truly became the canvas for her artistic expression. It was here amidst the tranquil beauty of the countryside that Robyn found inspiration in the lush landscapes and rustic charm, translating them into captivating works of art.Robyn’s artistic repertoire is as diverse as the landscapes that inspire her. From poignant sculptures reflecting the theme of empty nests as her only daughter remained in England, to evocative drawings capturing the essence of the bush charcoal, each piece is imbued with Robyn’s unique vision.One of the distinctive features of Robyn’s art is her meticulous framing technique, inspired by Japanese craftsmanship. Each piece is framed with precision, with intricate grooves lending a touch of sophistication and elegance to her creations. It’s this attention to detail that sets her work apart, elevating it to a realm of timeless beauty.Sculptures and paintings everywhere the eye can seeIn May and June, art enthusiasts will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Robyn’s world at GLAM, where some of her works will be showcased alongside the revered Lloyd Rees at his exhibition. Then again at Cin Cin’s wine bar where she is displaying her work. It’s a testament to her enduring legacy as an artist and the profound impact of her creations that there is so much public interest.Yet, amidst the accolades and recognition, Robyn remains humble, yet needs another house to showcase her art – or be able to part with some to buyers. As her husband tends to his separate library, Robyn continues to weave her magic, capturing the essence of Foxground’s beauty and the soul of the landscapes that inspire her.

Kiama mural artist Samuel Hall is gaining wide-spread recognition for his most recent mural on the side of the Rural Fire Service (RFS) station in the Southern Highlands town of Hill Top, depicting two of the local brigades longest serving members, Brian Coates and John Matters. Now residing in Corrimal, Hall was commissioned to do the artwork after completing a mural on the regeneration of the area after the horrific bushfires the side of the local general store last year.“These two men are a beacon to the community after a lifetime of dedication to the RFS and both men, who are now in their late 80’s, and with more than 150 years of service between them, went above and beyond to help with their town was threatened by the Wattle Creek blaze,” “As the fire raged, the two men grabbed torches and bravely led the way on foot to allow earthmoving equipment and fire trucks to move through an old track to help build fire breaks from Buxton to Hill Top.” Hall said.According to Sam, the two men were a bit reticient to be part of the project, but in the end were happy to take part. “I met with John and Brian in a local park and we just chatted and I was able to get a few nice candid pics I could use for the project,” he added. The 20-metre-long mural took more than 75 hours to complete and it appears the whole town took special interest in its progress, with many dropping off drinks and food as Sam worked. “In the end it was a very special project and one that is very close to my heart,” Sam said.