THE Diwali Exhibition at the Woolgoolga Art Gallery opened to the atmospheric music of the Rasayana Sacred Sound, comprising Chris-James Melchizedek playing the cittern and Gurnak Singh on the tablas.

Guest speaker, Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh, provided a rich and historical narrative of the meaning of Diwali, which is one of the most significant festivals celebrated by the Sikh community.

“The atmosphere on opening night was truly serene and exciting at the same time,” gallery spokesperson Karen Thio told News Of The Area.

“The music provided by Rasayana Sacred Sound was different to any music we have had before at gallery openings and is what made this opening so unique.

“The music really transported you to a Diwali festival.”

People attending the opening night voted on the People’s Choice award, which went to Sue Trefz for “Perceptive”, a watercolour portrait of a Sikh gentleman.

“The Sikh people provide natural inspiration for a painter,” Sue said.

“They have good bone structure, and their flowing clothes are wonderful to paint.”

The Diwali exhibition will be open to the public until 3 November.

During September, members of the gallery and members of the public were invited to enjoy several events in the lead-up to this exhibition.

One was an “En Plein Air” painting session held at the temple in Woolgoolga where the artists gained inspiration for their work.

The exhibitions are supported by City of Coffs Harbour Council.

By Andrea FERRARI