IN troubling times, art has always been an excellent form of therapy, drawing from world events and reflecting on the emotions that have arisen because of these.

‘A Window on Life’ is the Cool Summer Exhibition at the Gallery in the Gardens, reflecting on the ‘extraordinary changes 2020 brough and its impact on our plans and dreams’, as stated in the exhibition biography.

The exhibition features works from local artists only, showcasing artwork in a variety of media, hung in themes across the gallery.

Local artist and gallery member, Sonja Ridden has many abstract artworks across the gallery including ‘2020 Musings’, ‘Reflections’, ‘The Hermit’ and ‘Random Memories’, which all take different looks at 2020.

Joining Sonja are the works of Gail Rust, Di Ayers, Jan Johnson Furness, Emily Tseronis and many other talented artists.

Each artwork in the gallery is entirely unique, with a diverse range of symbolism to explore how COVID-19 and isolation impacted artists.

“I think my favourite thing about this exhibition is the fact that visitors can see what they want to see and interpret the artworks in their own way,” Sonja said.

One of the standout artworks in the gallery is Di Ayers ‘Is the Beach Still There?’, a reflective artwork from the window of Di’s window, looking out at Jimmy’s Beach.

It truly is a captivating and unique artwork that is sure to impact visitors, reminding them of the times during isolation that they longed for their favourite things.

“All artworks in the gallery are done by locals of the area.

“There are so many talented people in town, and everyone involved in this exhibition should feel extremely proud.

“We’ve created something with a great variety; something for everyone,” said Sonja.

‘A Window on Life’ will be on display from 10:0am-4:00pm every day until 31 January at the Tea Gardens Gallery in the Gardens.

 

By Tara CAMPBELL