An art funding program called Visions of Australia is looking for applicants. With a specific focus on remote and rural areas of the country, the program seeks to increase accessibility of exhibitions of quality Australian art and culture.The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts is offering funding to encourage collaboration between museums, galleries and other organisations to create curatorial partnerships, offering mentoring and skills transfer opportunities.  The funding is delivered in two ways; development or touring, designed to subsidise various costs including exhibition design, crating, installation, freighting and artist loan fees.The program is very competitive, with funding opportunities available twice a year, usually in February and September. Eligibility requires organisations to be incorporated with a principal focus on arts and/or cultural heritage. Unincorporated groups that do have an arts/cultural heritage focus are still eligible with a sponsorship from an organisation that meets the criteria. Projects must include a tour with at least three venues outside the applicant's state or territory, including consecutive exhibition dates and at least one regional or remote venue. Tour applications must provide venue confirmation forms, while development applications should include expressions of interest forms from each venue.Visions of Australia  plays a crucial role in fostering cultural inclusivity and collaboration across the Australian arts landscape. Applications open next month, with approximately $2.7 million in funding available each yearFor more information you can visit this website.

Anyone who lives in Hillview Circuit in South Kiama or has driven through is aware of the amazing sculpture garden at the very northern end of the circuit, which is overrun with amazing metal sculptures.The sculptor is Mike Tikkeros and he admits he has run out of space at his home to store the many sculptures he has made.One surprising fact is that the sculptures are surprisingly easy to transport, as Mike has designed the various parts to all click in and out. “You have to think like an engineer,” Mike says.Most parts are scavenged from various places, even unusual pieces of wood he finds in nature.Many are repurposed parts from various pieces of machinery, with over one thousand parts from different machines. The sculptures include all such ideas, mainly from metal. The most striking is the more than two-metre high metal sculpture of the creature from the movie ‘Alien’ in his front garden.The sculptures also include yachts, boats, movie cameras, frogs, aliens, instruments (electric guitar – Van Halen fan), violin, didgeridoo, harp, and many other ideas.There are now more than 300 sculptures in his home. Mike says his lounge room no longer has a lounge because it's been taken over by sculptures, but his wife Kylie is OK with it.

BY Brooke Pittman and Mark WhalanThe Gerringong Library and Museum (GLaM) is hosting for the final night a new art exhibition that combines the work of eight artists to showcase the eclectic talents of the local community and landscapes. The final day of the gallery is today,18 January.The eight artists involved in the project are Carolyn Mcdonald, Elizabeth O’Donoghue, Heather Philpott, John Svinos, Kay Dibley, Kerry Suttonberg, Leonie Scott and Sue Blanchfield. The exhibition is a collaborative effort that demonstrates the diverse talents that these artists have to offer, each expressing their own distinctive style and approach to their art.The works feature a diverse range of art mediums such as acrylic paints, screen printing, clay and timber work rendering the collection visually striking and conceptually beautiful. The artists have a demonstrated love for their community and environment, many of which draw inspiration from nature. Depictions of oceans and under the sea scenes, wildlife, sunsets and storms, and plants and flowers are all themes throughout the exhibition. Visitors to the gallery can immerse themselves in the diverse and captivating works of these eight talented artists. The exhibition not only celebrates local artistry but also invites the community to explore the many facets of creativity thriving within Gerringong. You can read more about the individual artists below:Carolyn McDonald paints mainly in acrylics and likes to use a technique using fragments of vibrant colour, making something unique from the everyday. At the moment, her work is mainly focused on plants and flowers, and sometimes life under the sea, which is a special interest of hers.Elizabeth O’Donoghue (Art by Elizods) works with varied media, preferring the ancient technique of hand-building with clay. Elizabeth favours the non-functional over the utilitarian object, although both are represented in her work.Heather Philpott has a deep passion for capturing beautiful ocean moments in acrylic paintings. She loves to explore the wondrous, refreshing aquamarines of the ocean’s waters, greys of a stormy day, the secret gold and pinks of dawn, the soft hues of dusk and the incredible creatures of the underwater world.“I love the ocean, especially the shoreline, that part that people experience near the land, and whales further offshore,” Heather told The Bugle.“I love to paint beautiful clean moments that can become mementoes or memories, even the sense of a breath being taken in the moment. Sometimes I take a photo and transfer that same joy to the canvas. I have joy in my work and I want the viewer to have that transfer of joy.”John Svinos creates handcrafted pieces from repurposed timber that people feel they can connect with - everyday items that serve a function. Each object is a reflection of the artist, a practical object that showcases the authenticity of the selected timbers.Kay Dibley has loved art all her life and has found soft pastel to be a great medium to work with. She is very inspired by our beautiful area, where she has lived most of her life. Kay also loves using wildlife as subjects for her drawing.“These include sugar gliders and landscapes, a landscape sold recently of Rose Valley to a descendant of the Millers who grew up in the valley,” Kay told The Bugle. “I see art as a way to create joy in the process of painting and the joy someone then gets from viewing the art"Kerry Suttonberg paints in a variety of media and her subject matter changes continuously. She enjoys various printmaking techniques, such as etching, lithography, lino printing and collagraphs. Living so close to the beach, Kerry is often drawn to painting her local environment. After a career in art teaching, she enjoys spending time creating in her studio.“I'm a former art teacher at Bomaderry and Kiama and work in studio prints and on collage based artworks. I love trying new themes and techniques and new materials,” Kerry said.She plays with abstractions often in a series and related to places, with each picture having one additional abstract progression, and then having fun with the abstraction of the realism. “In one piece, I am trying to give the feeling of people on the beach and get that feeling of a hot hot day when the cooling wind suddenly arrives.”Sue Blanchfield has a multimedia arts practice of printmaking, painting, surface design and textiles that interrogates post-colonial response to the Australian landscape.Leonie Scott's work is non-subjective or abstract. The process of painting has very little planning, it all happens in the moment. The work is a subconscious play of impulses and intuitions that come with the process of doing. Leonie throws out a challenge to the viewer to grasp their own interpretation.“Currently, my art is three-dimensional collages, where the viewer puts their own interpretations on the art, they respond based on their life experiences or their own experiences.“The three-dimensional collage is for myself and I like to experiment and be intuitive without planning. Guided by intuition, sometimes I deconstruct part of a collage, and my process is a meditative thing and as I create, especially after a bad day, I throw a bit of paint around and in my happy place and hopefully the viewer gets access to that happy place.”Leonie said “The exhibition has been a success and we will be back.”

For a delightful and creative gift, I had the exciting idea of treating my mother-in-law and sister-in-law to an engaging hands-on experience. After some research, I settled on attending the Saturday Soul workshop at Soul Clay Studios.Zeynep, the proprietor of Soul Clay Studios and a former English teacher, graciously accommodated our last-minute request, making us feel genuinely welcomed throughout the day.The workshop kicked off with a comprehensive demonstration and tutorial led by Adrian, focusing on the art of pottery wheel throwing. Adrian guided us through the initial steps of placing clay on the wheel, emphasising the importance of precision. I quickly learned that aligning the clay with the centre of the wheel was more challenging than anticipated, but Adrian's assistance made the process smoother.The hands-on experience of moulding the clay into various shapes was undeniably enjoyable. Witnessing the clay respond to my creative touch, taking shape under my hands, added a fascinating dimension to the artistic process.Participants were encouraged to let their creativity run wild, and while many started with simple bowl-like shapes, my mother-in-law surprised everyone by skillfully crafting a near-perfect plate. Adrian explained that making plates is typically reserved for advanced potters, making her accomplishment even more impressive.A well-deserved break came in the form of morning tea, featuring Marcus, Zeynep's husband and fellow studio worker, treating us to his award-winning white chocolate and raspberry muffins. As we indulged in these delectable treats, the studio team continued their pottery-throwing process.By the end of the workshop, each of us had crafted three to five pieces, though not all survived the journey to the kiln. Nonetheless, we were thrilled with the three completed pieces per person, a testament to the enjoyable and educational experience.Engaging in pottery at Soul Clay Studios was not only a fun gift but also an opportunity to delve into the artistry of pottery, making us feel like professional potters, if only for a few totally engaging hours.

Fern Street Gallery in Gerringong has an exciting schedule of upcoming exhibitions coming up in the first few months of 2024. Resident artist Carmel McCarney starts off the new year with her exhibition A Summer by the Sea which runs from 8-14 January. The collection is a demonstration of McCarney’s passion for coastal life and was inspired by a recent holiday in Europe. She portrays moments under the sun and languid holiday getaways in her signature soft palette.  The exhibition has already garnered interest and the front window piece has already been secured by a collector. You can meet McCarney in person over the next week at the gallery during opening hours 10-4pm daily.Several other resident artists are included in the coming lineup: Kerry Bruce,  Jon Harris, Vanessa Anderson, Andrew McPhail, Alisa Beak, and Jennifer Luck. Following McCarney’s exhibition My Secret Garden by Kerry Bruce will be held on 15-21 January, with three new ones to follow until the end of February.The gallery has an existing lineup of exhibitions curated by resident artists, set to unfold in the upcoming months. The gallery is actively seeking to incorporate new exhibitions into their calendar for the months of May, June, and August.You can head to the Fern Gallery Website to register your interest to exhibit,  shop available artworks and access the exhibition schedule on the Fern Street Gallery website.

Mikey Freedom brings a new, transformative art exhibition to Seven Marks Gallery in Kiama next month with Sunbather. The exhibition will be on display from 10 February to 23 March. Freedom navigates the balance of line, colour and shape, unravelling personal meanings within his compositions. Each piece depicts a ‘hopeful tide of future restful days against the contrast of our times.’ Freedom uses celebratory moments and weighty symbolism, leaving his work open for individual interpretation.  The deeper narrative is intertwined with visions of lazy play, aimless pursuits and the resounding nature of summer. Visit the website to see other scheduled exhibitions at Seven Marks Gallery.

Expressive Art continues with the Wall Trail journey this year by adding a third venue to their list of local exhibitors. The Wall Trail has been exhibiting since last September with Minnamurra Cafe joining as the newest addition to the venues that Expressive Art use to exhibit a range of artworks from local artists. Exhibits can currently be found in Wild Patch Cafe and Smoothie Bar, Kiama and Stoic Brewing, Gerringong where the art can be purchased by the public. The exhibits rotate every six weeks and some featured local talents so far include Phil Winterton, Gay Emmerson, Darren Parlett, and Kathy Karas. Expressive Art is always looking for local artists who want the opportunity to display and sell their work in the area. Expressive Art is offering a discount of 24 per cent off for 2024 for any artist who books and finalises their exhibition dates before the end of January. The Wall Trail has also announced the exciting news that they are the winners of a grant from South Coast Arts which will ensure they can build an independent website for the Expressive Art Wall Trail. The growth of the Wall Trail is ongoing as not just an exhibition of art but a community-driven celebration of creativity. For any further enquiries please contact Expressive Art, Michelle & Tiffany Springett at [email protected]. 

Gerringong Library and Museum Gallery has hosted a contemporary Aboriginal art exhibition by local artist Kay A over the past week that explores the beauty of our local LGA.Kay is a proud Wiradjuri woman of the Cowra Mob - Galari Clan who has been creating art for more than 20 years. She is a guest of the Wodi Wodi people on Dharawal Land and draws her inspiration from the beautiful land around her. Kay has met a lot of people with a keen interest in contemporary Aboriginal art and culture during the exhibition. She has met many people who she wouldn’t have ordinarily gotten the chance to meet and reflects on the importance of connection with people. “It’s not typical, not tokenistic and it’s quite individual. It still tells a story of culture, connection, and country,” Kay told The Bugle. Connection to country, nature, people and community are heavy influences on Kay’s art style. She spends as much time outdoors as possible, going on bush walks, and being near the water and the rocks are crucial for her to feel connected to Country and to find inspiration for her art. Kay’s work reflects her love of country, and she says when creating her art that “I look through a different window every time.” Kay looks to nature to create and each artwork is an individual reflection of her process. She does not take photographs or plan sketches but waits for inspiration to come to her.“My influence comes from interaction with people, with community,” Kay says. Her art reflects a strong influence from the elements and aspects of nature that are intertwined with Aboriginal culture. Trees, wind, water, sun and cicadas are all present in her individualistic works, “when you get one of my works you won’t see it again.”Kay will be part of another exhibition hosted at the Old Fire House in Kiama over the Easter period next year. A portion of the money Kay makes from her art sales goes to a company that creates care packages for Aboriginal communities across the country. Kay cares a lot about her community and helping where help is needed, she’s a believer that you must share what you have. You can see Kay’s art for sale at her website here. 

In a turn of events, what initially began as an opportunity to showcase their own art at Wild Patch Cafe has blossomed into a side venture for Tiffany and Michelle Springett – the Expressive Art Wall Trail. Since its inception in September, this dynamic duo has transformed a simple café wall into a rotating canvas for local artists.Kathy Karas at Stoic BrewingThe latest addition to this evolving tapestry is the Stoic Brewing Wall in Gerringong, boasting its first exhibit by the talented Kathy Karas. The walls, now painted in a warm charcoal grey, allowing the artworks to take centre stage. A visit to the brewery is highly recommended, and why not enjoy some tasty burgers?At the heart of this creative endeavour is Tiffany Springett, the curator, ensuring that each venue is paired with the perfect artwork. The Wild Patch Cafe & Smoothie Bar is currently hosting the vibrant photography of Darren Parlett's photos printed on acrylic, adding a unique dimension to his captivating artwork.This art trail, now spanning across multiple venues, is on the lookout for additional walls to enrich its ever-expanding repertoire. The callout is also for artists who are eager to contribute to the wall trail. If you're an artist with a passion for exhibiting your work in diverse and engaging spaces, the Expressive Art Wall Trail wants to hear from you.Darren Parlett at WildPatch cafeJoin us on this exciting journey as local talents merge, transforming ordinary walls into extraordinary galleries. The Expressive Art Wall Trail is not just an exhibition; it's a community-driven celebration of creativity. Watch this space as new walls and artists join the trail, turning our local area into a vibrant canvas for artistic expression. Simply email us at [email protected] contributors Michelle & Tiffany

RISE students embark on a journey of creativity, inclusivity, and community connection every week, with the annual RISE Student's Art Exhibition standing out as a high point in the calendar. This event provided a captivating evening for students and organisers to join forces with friends, family, and visitors, unveiling the artistic talents nurtured within the RISE program.Madison Simms, a participant in the Thursday Shell Cove RISE group, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “Art is heaps of fun we are always learning new art with our teacher Rachel. I find it very social. I look forward to every Thursday. I just love attending, see my friends and the workers as well.”Naomi Deck echoed this sentiment, saying, " "It's been so great coming along each week and creating something new. I'm really proud of all the work we have been able to create. It's lots of fun for everyone."Chris Jenny Naomi WendyAlexia Waldon, a Wednesday participant in the Kiama Art group, shared her perspective, stating, “I love going to RISE because I get to hang out with my friends and also I get to make things for my friends as well.”Hosted by Kiama Community College at Shell Cove on November 30, the RISE Student's Art Exhibition served as a showcase of the artistic brilliance cultivated within the RISE Program. This initiative, standing for Rewarding Inclusive Social Education, tailors weekly classes to students with disabilities actively engaged in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). These classes provide a supportive platform for skill acquisition, recreational enjoyment, socialisation, and community engagement.Visitors to the exhibition bore witness to the students' artistic prowess, gaining insight into the vibrant artwork on display. The event not only offered a unique opportunity to explore the creative expressions of these individuals but also provided a deeper understanding of the enriching experiences offered by the RISE Program. Attendees were encouraged to participate in a complimentary craft activity, immersing themselves in community happenings, and showing support for the artists by acquiring their remarkable creations.Jodi Chris Naomi JennyFor additional information about this inspiring initiative, please contact Wendy Rafferty at 0429 796 203 or [email protected].

Well-known local resident Howard Jones gave a talk at the GLaM for the Gerringong Historical Society and Remnants Art Exhibition on the evening of Thursday 23 November 2023.Howard H Jones, long-term Saddleback resident and founder of GEPS (Gerringong Environment Protection Society) spoke for an hour on the preciousness of the remnants of our local biodiversity. Howard served as a Kiama Councillor from 1991 to 1995.Howard said in his talk:“Kiama has at least 11 Endangered Ecological Communities. My talk focused on the ecological values, losses and threats to 6 important vegetation communities in our area and the wildlife associated with them. The presentation also outlined the 35 years of GEPS actions to build awareness and advocate for these values.  We have lost all of our natural freshwater wetlands and around 88 percent of the great Illawarra Brush Subtropical rainforest that once covered much of the volcanic soils of Kiama.  So, it’s really important to know this history in order to look after what’s left. The remnant rainforest remaining in Kiama still represents the largest area of subtropical rainforest in South Eastern Australia and Seven Mile Beach has an amazingly diverse association of Endangered Ecological Communities. “Howard also referenced the loss of the endangered species of ziera granulata along Saddleback roads, and melaleuca but also referenced Barren Ground Nature reserve near Jamberoo as a success with its 500 species of plants and 180 birds recorded, and many species of frog including the green and golden bell frog. Bushwalkers often comment on the area being full of flowers in season.Howard Jones also said after the talk:“I don’t feel sad because that wouldn’t affect change. It’s important that the community, especially the decision makers, are aware of what we have and value, love and care for this beautiful environment. Ignorance and indifference are the greatest threat.”Howard Jones at the GLamThe Remnants art exhibition’s theme highlights what is left of our precious rainforest, and various other local environments with many endangered species of plants and animals. Many of the colours used in the creation of the art in the exhibition were made from local materials.The three artists behind the exhibition are Penny Sadubin, Tim Rushby-Smith, and Sue Blanchfield.Penny Sadubin is a local Gerringong artist who did her BFA at UNSW in 1994, and her Master of Teaching Secondary Visual Arts in 2021 at UOW. She was based in London between 1996 and 2013.Tim Rushby-Smith is a journalist and author who wrote a memoir ‘Looking Up’ published in 2008 after a fall from a tree in 2005 resulted in permanent paraplegia. He has been published in many Australian and British publications and wrote a second book ‘Beyond the Break’. He has exhibited his art at the Shoalhaven Regional Gallery in 2023 and Hazelhurst Art Centre in 2021.Susan Blanchfield uses printmaking on paper and cloth, using eucalyptus dyes and her work was shown in Lodz Poland in 2004. She trained at the National Art School in Sydney from 1966 to 1969 and completed her Master of Creative Arts at the University of Wollongong in 1998.The exhibition is open till 29 November 2023 between 10am and 2pm in the Museum Gallery inside Gerringong Library on Blackwood Street Gerringong.

Local Gerroa artist, Michele Skuza, unveils her world of brightly coloured oil paintings that vividly portray life on the South Coast of NSW, both above and below the waterline. From November 23 to 29, the Old Fire Station Art Gallery in Kiama will be adorned with her creations.With over two decades of artistic exploration under the guidance of renowned North Queensland artist Ruth Heiner, Michele's work exudes a unique style. Her paintings showcase the lively inhabitants of rocky reefs, featuring fascinating creatures like the blue-ringed octopus and weedy sea dragons, sharing space with the beautiful birds found in coastal gardens.In 2019, after more than 30 years as a marine scientist on the Great Barrier Reef, Michele relocated to Gerroa to pursue her passion for painting. Inspired by the breathtaking scenes and creatures along Australia's coastline, her bright and hyper-realistic style is a joyful celebration of the vibrant colours in the natural world.Michele's artistic journey took an unexpected turn when a friend's request to paint local shorebirds on driftwood led to innovative experimentation. Salvaged board lining from demolition yards became her canvas, proving immensely popular with the locals."Birds Behaving Badly," Michele's latest exhibition promises a delightful narrative. From magpies scavenging New Year's debris in "New Years Day" to Cockatoos indulging in unattended pavlova in "Polly wants a Pav," and rainbow lorikeets relishing scones and jam in "Devonshire Tea," each piece tells a story.Michele says, “One of my favourite things about having an exhibition is the people I get to meet and have a chat with, for example, the three-year-olds who can tell me the name of every bird and sea creature I have painted, the octogenarians who tell me stories about their backyard wildlife encounters, as well as the wag who demanded a discount as he was buying a painting with only the head of the cockatoo not the whole bird!”For Michele, art should bring joy to both the creator and the collector. Her philosophy is clear: if it doesn't evoke positive emotions or transport you to a happy place, it doesn't deserve a spot on your wall. Visitors are invited to experience the joy and vibrancy of "Sea to Sky," open daily from 10 am to 4 pm, November 23-29 at the Kiama Old Fire Station.

Roger Graham, 92, is an accomplished craftsman and a true gentleman who stands as a testament to the enduring power of passion and creativity. His second career as a potter has defied the constraints of age and flourished with time. Roger's primary focus is on creating high-fired domestic stoneware. His pieces are practical and yet artful, designed to be cherished in our daily lives. Working from his workshop, which is nested in the charming setting of the old Toolijooa School House, Roger skillfully brings clay to life in the form of mugs, teapots, bowls, and figurines. His creations include a variety of animals such as owls, dragons, pussycats, little wombats, emus, and dolphins.Roger Graham Pottery - teabag teapotPreviously a school science teacher in Kiama, in his retirement, Roger embarked on an artistic journey with his wife, Pauline, dedicating four years to a part-time pottery course at TAFE. Both of them graduated in 1991 with a Certificate in Studio Ceramics, with Pauline even outshining her husband in academic prowess. In fact none of this would have happened if Pauline hadn’t started off the idea! She booked the first course and bought the first wheel, and the rest, they say, is history.Regarding their venture, Roger humbly refers to it as a "cottage industry," which came to life in 1988. Their initial equipment was modest, including a small electric kiln (6 cubic feet), lovingly resurrected from its burnt-out state. Over the years, they expanded their arsenal with a larger gas-fired fibre kiln (27 cubic feet), a smaller test kiln (2 cubic feet), and a wood-fired kiln, each reflecting their commitment to the craft.Today, Roger continues to shape clay into art while Pauline takes on the pivotal roles of Quality Control Supervisor and Customer Relations Manager. Roger consults with her about glazes and creative design for the pieces. Despite the march of time and the slowing pace that comes with it, they persist in their creative journey.If you ever find yourself on the highway near Toolijooa, watch for a sign directing you to their pottery 'display room.' In their charmingly modest style, they prefer not to use the term 'studio' as it sounds "too pretentious," opting for 'display room' and workshop.Roger Graham Pottery This workshop is a haven of creativity, housing three pottery wheels, pugmills, a slab roller, extruders, various kilns, and all the essential tools. “We fire an occasional batch of terracotta items, but most of the work is stoneware, fired to cone 9 or 10,” says Roger.With a twinkle in his eye, Roger describes opening the kiln door after each firing as akin to unwrapping a Christmas present, where some pots exceed expectations while others present room for improvement.In their quest for continual learning and improvement, every result is meticulously documented with the aim of constant refinement.Roger's commitment to passing on his knowledge is evident in the three skilled craftspeople he mentors. He thrives on learning and experimenting, often delving into techniques such as water-etching, which imbues surfaces with a delicate raised pattern, opening up a world of artistic possibilities.Roger in the workshopTheir work has not gone unnoticed, with a collection of prize ribbons earned at various shows and exhibitions. It's a testament to the quality and artistry behind every piece they produce. Roger and Pauline are just as enthusiastic about making pottery today as they were 30 years ago!Full of stories and reminiscences of the past, Roger and Pauline love to laugh and to chat with those who visit their workshop. “We meet a lot of interesting people from all corners of the globe,” and they have a map of the world on the workshop wall with coloured pins showing all the places that his visitors have come from. Very humble about his achievements, Roger says that, apart from the creative outlet, he and his proteges find potting very soothing, adding “Who doesn’t like ‘playing in the mud’?”For a closer look at Roger and Pauline's artistry and craftsmanship, you can visit their 'display room' at Old Toolijooa School, 233 Princes Hwy, Gerringong, NSW 2534. Alternatively, you can explore their website: Pottery at Old Toolijooa School. And if you like stories, Roger and Pauline have plenty. 

Roger Graham, 92, is an accomplished craftsman and a true gentleman who stands as a testament to the enduring power of passion and creativity. His second career as a potter has defied the constraints of age and flourished with time. Roger's primary focus is on creating high-fired domestic stoneware. His pieces are practical and yet artful, designed to be cherished in our daily lives. Working from his workshop, which is nested in the charming setting of the old Toolijooa School House, Roger skillfully brings clay to life in the form of mugs, teapots, bowls, and figurines. His creations include a variety of animals such as owls, dragons, pussycats, little wombats, emus, and dolphins.Roger Graham Pottery - teabag teapotPreviously a school science teacher in Kiama, in his retirement, Roger embarked on an artistic journey with his wife, Pauline, dedicating four years to a part-time pottery course at TAFE. Both of them graduated in 1991 with a Certificate in Studio Ceramics, with Pauline even outshining her husband in academic prowess. In fact none of this would have happened if Pauline hadn’t started off the idea! She booked the first course and bought the first wheel, and the rest, they say, is history.Regarding their venture, Roger humbly refers to it as a "cottage industry," which came to life in 1988. Their initial equipment was modest, including a small electric kiln (6 cubic feet), lovingly resurrected from its burnt-out state. Over the years, they expanded their arsenal with a larger gas-fired fibre kiln (27 cubic feet), a smaller test kiln (2 cubic feet), and a wood-fired kiln, each reflecting their commitment to the craft.Today, Roger continues to shape clay into art while Pauline takes on the pivotal roles of Quality Control Supervisor and Customer Relations Manager. Roger consults with her about glazes and creative design for the pieces. Despite the march of time and the slowing pace that comes with it, they persist in their creative journey.If you ever find yourself on the highway near Toolijooa, watch for a sign directing you to their pottery 'display room.' In their charmingly modest style, they prefer not to use the term 'studio' as it sounds "too pretentious," opting for 'display room' and workshop.Roger Graham Pottery This workshop is a haven of creativity, housing three pottery wheels, pugmills, a slab roller, extruders, various kilns, and all the essential tools. “We fire an occasional batch of terracotta items, but most of the work is stoneware, fired to cone 9 or 10,” says Roger.With a twinkle in his eye, Roger describes opening the kiln door after each firing as akin to unwrapping a Christmas present, where some pots exceed expectations while others present room for improvement.In their quest for continual learning and improvement, every result is meticulously documented with the aim of constant refinement.Roger's commitment to passing on his knowledge is evident in the three skilled craftspeople he mentors. He thrives on learning and experimenting, often delving into techniques such as water-etching, which imbues surfaces with a delicate raised pattern, opening up a world of artistic possibilities.Roger in the workshopTheir work has not gone unnoticed, with a collection of prize ribbons earned at various shows and exhibitions. It's a testament to the quality and artistry behind every piece they produce. Roger and Pauline are just as enthusiastic about making pottery today as they were 30 years ago!Full of stories and reminiscences of the past, Roger and Pauline love to laugh and to chat with those who visit their workshop. “We meet a lot of interesting people from all corners of the globe,” and they have a map of the world on the workshop wall with coloured pins showing all the places that his visitors have come from. Very humble about his achievements, Roger says that, apart from the creative outlet, he and his proteges find potting very soothing, adding “Who doesn’t like ‘playing in the mud’?”For a closer look at Roger and Pauline's artistry and craftsmanship, you can visit their 'display room' at Old Toolijooa School, 233 Princes Hwy, Gerringong, NSW 2534. Alternatively, you can explore their website: Pottery at Old Toolijooa School. And if you like stories, Roger and Pauline have plenty. 

Colour is a fundamental aspect of the human experience. It defines how we perceive and interact with the world around us. Celebrating the interaction of light and form can provoke significant effects on understanding and emotion.Nina Cueva with Chick ButcherAn element with a rich history, this exhibition explores the power of colour to communicate feelings, ideas and evoke visceral responses. Colour brings together a collection of celebrated contemporary artists from a range of artistic backgrounds; Phil Spelman, Scott Chaseling, Mikey Freedom, Matt Heaney, Chick Butcher, Cesar Cueva and Cobi Cockburn. Through explorations in composition and object-making, these artists investigate the way humans experience and interact with colour, space and light, using these elements in their practice to connect with the everyday and human emotion. The SevenMarks Gallery is set to mark its first anniversary with the unveiling of a captivating exhibition titled "COLOUR & SPACE," running from November 18 to January 27, 2024. This immersive showcase delves into the profound role of colour and space in shaping our understanding of the world and its impact on human emotions.Colour, as a fundamental aspect of the human experience, plays a pivotal role in defining our perception and interaction with the surroundings. The exhibition aims to celebrate the dynamic interplay of light and form, showcasing how this interaction can provoke significant effects on our understanding and emotional responses.Mikey Freedom in front of his oil on canvas - A Table Set Before MeFeaturing a curated collection of works by acclaimed, local contemporary artists, "COLOUR & SPACE" brings together the creative expressions of Phil Spelman, Scott Chaseling, Mikey Freedom, Matt Heaney, Chick Butcher, Cesar Cueva, and Cobi Cockburn. Hailing from diverse artistic backgrounds, these artists explore the power of colour to communicate feelings, ideas, and evoke visceral responses.The exhibition invites viewers to embark on a journey through the rich history of colour, examining its capacity to connect with the everyday and elicit profound emotional reactions. Through innovative explorations in composition and object-making, the artists delve into the ways humans experience and interact with colour, space, and light in their daily lives.The 7 Marks Gallery, is a collaboration founded by Nina and Cesar Cueva along with Chick Butcher and Cobi Cockburn on their property and has become a vibrant hub for artistic expression in its first year. The Cueva’s also run Courtesy of the Artist in the Strand arcade, Sydney also where their hallmark jewellery is crafted. Cesar Cueva, renowned as a studio photographer and jewellery maker, brings his unique perspective to the exhibition. Recent exhibitions at the gallery showcased tattoo art and jewellery, demonstrating the versatile artistic range locally.The premises, built by Chick and Cobi combine home, studio and exhibition space and have undergone a transformative process over 12 years. Notable features include a lap pool ingeniously crafted from repurposed shipping containers, free-range chickens, and landscaped garden spaces. The entire gallery project has been orchestrated on their own terms, involving collaborations with artists whose homes resemble museums, filled to the brim with an impressive array of artistic works. Local artists are encouraged to exhibit overseas also. The inaugural year presented a challenging learning curve, as the intricate details of managing such a unique space unfolded.Matthew Heaney, Cesar Cueva and Mikey FreedomDealing with artists, known for their distinctive needs and preferences, proved to be a demanding yet rewarding experience. Chick says, “artists are a needy bunch”. Despite the challenges, a strong sense of camaraderie prevails among the individuals involved. The collaborative effort has fostered a community where everyone genuinely cares for each other, contributing to the overall success of this extraordinary venture.The "COLOUR & SPACE" exhibition not only marks a significant milestone in the gallery's first-year journey but also serves as a testament to its commitment to presenting thought-provoking and visually stunning art to the community. They hope the audience that enjoyed the last tattoo exhibition LINK may return to try something different – encouraging people to explore different options. The gallery's founders, along with exhibiting artists, invite art enthusiasts and the public alike to join in the celebration of this exploration into the intricate relationship between colour, space, and human experience.

Warren Steel, affectionately known as "Stainless," is a multi-talented individual, wearing various hats as an artist, author, and Councillor with Kiama Municipal Council. With a diverse career spanning many different industries, Warren boasts a wide-ranging skill set and extensive experience of life.His journey began as a 15-year-old apprentice electrician, but over the years, he has ventured into myriad fields, including photography, real estate, sports-related businesses, banking, timber and brickworks. Notably, he served as the CEO of the Wollongong Chamber of Commerce for a decade, championing the cause of small businesses and advocating for their representation in local government.Warren's passion for giving back to the community is undeniable, but about two decades ago, he discovered a new calling in art, encompassing both painting and creative writing. His hope is that his vibrant paintings exude positive energy and find homes on the walls of both residences and workplaces."Painting is my true passion, and my love for bright, vivid colours is evident in all my artwork," Warren shares. His life's guiding motto has always been, "There is no such word as CAN'T," a principle he wholeheartedly embodies.In addition to his artistic pursuits, Warren is a talented cartoonist and a proud member of the professional organisation, The Australian Cartoonists' Association. In November 2006, he attended a significant gathering, participated in an on-the-spot competition, and emerged as an award winner.Here is a compilation of Warren’s fun wildlife-inspired paintings. One of Warren's remarkable artistic endeavours includes his interpretation of Australian banknotes.Warren confesses that he has a vivid imagination. This has assisted him to author and illustrate five books, with another one poised for release. Two are children’s books, ‘Kiama Blowhole Cup’ and Bim the Blue-eyed Bullphin’, plus three adult books, ‘Felix’ and‘ Memoirs of a Cat Burglar’ and “Get Tank Laid’.  For Warren, staying busy and continuously "doing things" serves as a deep source of inspiration, particularly since the passing of his beloved wife of 58 years, Sandra, two years ago. Her absence is deeply felt, and Warren finds solace in his creative work.To explore Warren's artistry and connect with him, visit his website at: www.cocka2art.com 

Theme – “Community”The pandemic served to highlight what really matters and shone a light on what “Community” means to each of us. We all belong to one or more communities, which may intersect and which we may have either actively created or fallen into – including work or profession, social and friends, family, religion, hobbies and creative pursuits, neighbourhood, charity and support groups etc. Community can provide comfort, a supportive anchor and a sense of belonging that enriches our lives.  There will be four prizes: First and Runner-up (adult category), Youth (under 16s) and the popular ‘People’s Choice’ where all entries will be considered.  The competition starts on Friday 25 August and closes on Sunday, 1 October 2023 at 11:59pm. Photographers are invited to interpret the theme however they choose – whatever “community” represents for you. We are thrilled to have these three official Judges: Linda Fury: an award-winning photographer and President of the Kiama Shellharbour Camera Club. Jeff Sheppeard: fine art photographer and owner of Norfolk and Co. shop in Gerringong, andBrian Scott: The Bugle’s sport photographer who has worked with various newspapers for over 20 years.Entries will be judged on: Artistic and visual appeal, Originality, interpretation of the theme, and Image quality e.g. suitable sharpness, clarity, contrast, exposure, resolution.You can be a judge too for the People’s Choice prize. All are welcome to visit our office to view an exhibition displaying prints of all the entries at Unit 2 (first floor), 88-90 Terralong St, Kiama. From 10am till 4pm on weekdays, from Tuesday 3 October - Friday 13 October, come up and meet us, then view the entries and cast your vote for your favourite photo. Strictly one vote per person. The Bugle will also host a webpage for online viewing. Details will be posted on our App. Entry Conditions:Free entry for all - limited to one (1) submission per entrant.Entrants must reside in the local community i.e. The Bugle circulation area (Minnamurra, Kiama Downs, Jamberoo, Kiama, Gerringong and Gerroa).Entries are to be uploaded by file transfer.  Please include a description of your entry, explaining how it represents “Community” to you (200 word maximum please).Photo entries to be supplied in JPEG file format in 3:2, 4:3 or 16:9 ratio, at least 300dpi and no greater than 10MB in size.The photo entry must be original and taken specifically for this competition. The Bugle may, in its discretion, choose not to publish or include an image, for any reason.Entrants acknowledge that The Bugle will have the right to publish their image for promotional purposes, which relate to the competition.Judging will take place in the week ending Friday 6 October. Judging will be by a panel of local photographers and sponsors – and there will also be a “People’s Choice” winner voted by The Bugle’s readership. Prizes: First (adult category) Runner-up (adult category) Youth (under 16s) and  People’s Choice (all entries will be considered).  Winners will receive their choice of prize:A 6-month Platinum gym membership at OneFitness giving 24/7 access - over $800 valueA full year’s free membership to the Kiama Shellharbour Camera Club and a day spent with a professional photographer PLUS $300 voucher for picture framing at Framed By Us A double pass to Jamberoo Action Park to have fun all day!A case of wine from Gainsborough Liquor A huge thanks to our sponsors for their support and generosity: Framed By UsGainsborough LiquorJamberoo Action ParkKiama Shellharbour Camera ClubOne FitnessThe winners will be announced in The Bugle App and print edition on October 19. TO ENTER: click on the QR code:  Good luck with your entry. 

Gail Connellan is the living example of the phrase “it’s never too late to chase your dreams.” After a successful career in real estate and having raised a family of three in Minnamurra with her husband Malcolm, Gail wanted to return to what she was most passionate about in her adolescence: art.“I wanted to get back to art because I had a passion for it but I just didn’t have time. You don’t have time to do anything when you’re working in real estate and raising a family,” Gail told The Bugle.“I studied art at school, but I never pursued it any further because art just wasn’t considered something you could do full-time. It was being a secretary, nurse or a teacher. Those were the only things people thought women could do that brought in an income. They’re not bad jobs by any means, just as long as you’re passionate about it.” Gail resigned from the corporate lifestyle in 2021, but her passion for painting was really reignited in 2019 following the devastating bushfires that ripped through Australia. “I was feeling really emotional about it all and I ended up doing a painting on it,” Gail said “I just felt I needed to do that.” She painted a powerful image of a firefighter battling a blaze, but wanted to improve on her work so decided to take up classes with Kerry Bruce, a local artist and owner/director of Fern Street gallery in Gerringong. The lessons have already started paying for themselves; Gail has already been commissioned to paint several artworks for clients, including a landscape of Minnamurra’s Rangoon Island. “At the moment, I’m painting a lot of animals. I love doing landscapes, but animals are what I enjoy the most. I really like painting dark, black backgrounds and bringing animals forwards on the canvas. I’ve had some commissions for flowers and that sort of thing though, I’ll do anything!” Gail says people are never too old to pursue their passions, and young people should take advantage of the opportunities they’re afforded to pursue creative endeavours. “The advice I give to people is that you are never too old. Just go back to it if you really enjoy it. New generations can pursue those passions. Our generation couldn’t - it was something we always put on hold when our parents told us to get a ‘paying job’, and there were no jobs in art.” The artist lifestyle also affords Gail more time with her family, having just become a grandmother. Kiama locals may be familiar with the story of Gail’s son, Brett Connellan, who survived a shark attack while surfing at Bombo Beach in 2016. After creating and self-funding a documentary - Attacking Life - with his friend Sam Tolhurst, Brett has been on a motivational speaking tour discussing how to be resilient through all of life’s challenges.“He recently finished a tour of Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney where he talks about his experience and how he got through it, relating it to day-to-day life with our own ‘personal shark attacks’ that can be whatever you’re going through. You just have to push through to the end as he did.” 

Gerringong Pic’n’Flicks will be showing the George Gittoe and Hellen Rose film “Ukraine Guernica Art Not War '' on Friday 1 September at the Gerringong Town Hall starting at 7:30pm.The film was launched in the Illawarra at the Gala Cinema Warrawong on 16 August. George Gittoe is a long-term resident of Werri Beach, and if you saw him quietly shopping at the local Gerringong IGA, you wouldn’t have any idea what a remarkable life he has led. He is described as one of Australia’s most uncompromising artists, activists, and filmmakers. In collaboration with Hellen Rose, new creative works arise from the ashes of unspeakable tragedy, including the former House of Culture in Irpin, Ukraine.For 50 years, he has worked in almost every war zone since Vietnam, including Cambodia, Nicaragua, the Philippines, Somalia, South Africa, Rwanda, Mozambique, Western Sahara, Southern Lebanon, Palestine-Israel, Tibet, East Timor, Bougainville, Northern Ireland, the Republic of the Congo, Yemen, Iraq, the North-West Frontier of Pakistan, and Afghanistan. He has become an award-winning filmmaker and public artist.He has brought a fearless and compassionate eye to all these war zones and has received many awards and honours, including the Sydney Peace Prize.Remarkably he has made several Pashtun romance dramas in northern Pakistan, where filming sometimes led them to cross the border into Afghanistan.In George’s own words, why does he do it? “The whole world is my studio. In the past it was the natural world where predators fed on gentler creatures. I go alone into a different kind of human wilderness to contemplate the basics of humanity.”George Gittoe installed the Yellow Surf Shack in 2021 at Pacific Avenue Werri Beach in a yellow fibro house built in 1947. Since 2005, it has served as a base for the surf community at Werri Beach. George had a famous Yellow House artist refuge in Jalalabad, Afghanistan (with the permission of the Taliban). The first bohemian Yellow House was in Sydney in 1971, when George was 21, with the likes of Brett Whiteley and Martin Sharp.