INCLUSION and access are par for the course as Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery showcases their White Bluff Project exhibition in a variety of ways so audiences don’t miss out.

From paintings and ceramics, to poetry and film, the exhibition showcases fifteen local artists.

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Gallery-goers can of course see the exhibition live on the grounds during gallery hours.

But did you know you can log on to the 3D exhibition via the gallery website?

So whether you are in bed, in isolation or on the other side of the world or not you can see the results of a four year collaboration between artists and scientists.

And better still you can join ecologist Mark Graham as he narrates a night time journey with the artists giving a voice to the unique ecosystem at a soundscape event on November 26, highlighting the sounds and stories of White Bluff At Night.

Mr Graham will be revealing fauna and flora with biologist Greg Elks, while the audience will uncover the artists’ impressions by torch light.

During the project, the artists gained deep insights by working beside land and marine scientists, an historian and traditional Gumbaynggirr knowledge holders.

A key influence has been renowned ecologist Mark Graham, who has brought the natural diversity of White Bluff to life, revealing ecosystems going back tens of millions of years.

Mr Graham hopes the public will see why local places like White Bluff are worth looking after.

“My role has been to interpret the ecological values of White Bluff, where ancient rainforests meet our most southern coral reefs, and how globally significant the biodiversity is,” he said.

“It’s some of our country’s most diverse land and sea and is an incredibly stimulating place from which to develop creative expression.”

Inspired by Mark’s description of lava eruptions, painter Ray Rixon created Rupture 2020, representing the area’s earliest geological formation and the fragility the coastline faces today.

Some surprising discoveries during the project include a remnant stand of rainforest hoop pines and a rare microscopic phytoplankton in surrounding rockpools.

“To be on the land, in the lab and on the ocean with the artists was amazing and we now see those conversations and creative process expressed through different artistic media,” said Mr Graham.

The project was realised with funding from Coffs Harbour City Council’s Arts and Cultural Development Grants, supporting workshops and field trips to inform the final works.

Take the 3D Tour of the exhibition and book into White Bluff At Night on November 26 at: www.coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/gallery

The White Bluff Project is open at Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery until 15 January 2022.

By Sandra MOON