AS we celebrate Mother’s Day this Sunday, Tea Gardens local Margaret Gooding has found a unique way to remember and honour her Mum.

Margaret is staging an exhibition of her Mother’s unique fashion designs dating back to the 1940s and 50s.

“The exhibition is a rare treat, as it showcases the original watercolour fashion design paintings by my mother, Hazel Gedye,” Margaret told News Of The Area.

Hazel would go on to become an artist, well known for her watercolour landscapes.

But back in 1945 she had just started studying Commercial Art which led her to a career as a photo colourist with Geoffrey Baker Studios in Melbourne

‘’These early works of hers have never before been seen in public, as they are part of a private family collection.”

“There are post World War II fashions, similar to the time period as depicted in the movie, ‘The Dressmaker,” Margaret said.

There are also works of actual gowns designed and made by Hazel including wedding and bridesmaids dresses.

It’s clear Margaret has inherited her mother’s love of art.

Since moving to Tea Gardens with her husband and four children over 20 years ago, Margaret has been actively involved in the town’s creative community.

From being a member of the Tea Garden’s Primary School’s Art Show Committee and administrative committee member of the Myall Coast Arts Network for three years, Margaret is now one of the Curators of the Raymond Terrace Art Space.

“The RT Artspace is run by volunteers, is not-for-profit, and the Raymond Terrace Library provides the venue at 18 Sturgeon Street, behind Best & Less,” Margaret said.

The Artspace was also a finalist in the 2015 Australia Day Awards, receiving recognition for its services to the community.

The exhibition of Hazel Gedye’s works will be on display at the Art Space until 27 May.

 

By Margie TIERNEY