THE night could only be described as ‘fabulous’ as 300 art lovers, locals and visitors gathered at the grand opening of ‘The Gallery’ on the waterfront in Tea Gardens last Friday.

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Guests mingled in the garden while inside the newly renovated ‘Gallery’, local musician Michael Harvey tickled the ivories.

The champagne flowed and a smorgasbord of canapes wafted through the crowd.

The very latest artworks by Galleries in the Gardens members were on display and a number of them were eagerly snapped up.

Mark Tedeschi, AM QC, official declared the venue open with a flourish of a pen to canvas then invited others to add their moniker to the commemorative work.

“Galleries such as this are a very important part of the fabric of society and play an important adhesive role in communities,” Mark Tedeschi said.

Mark and GIG’s President, Trevor Cook, gave an interesting potted history of the building now owned by Lee and Rob Anderson who allow the not-for-profit group to use it as a gallery and activity venue.

“The Gallery has risen like a phoenix thanks to the hard work of dedicated Galleries in the Gardens members,” Trevor Cook said.

“Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest have always had a strong community ethos, with locals who selflessly give their time and more to benefit the area.”

State MP Kate Washington said, “The Gallery is such an impressive community initiative, I encourage everyone to visit this new, beautiful art gallery.”

So what’s next for the Gallery.

Weekly ArtSpeak mornings start from Wednesday 24 January in the garden.

They’re open to GIG members and anyone feeling arty and aimed at fostering friendships between ‘like minds’, the sharing knowledge and learning while working on your own art.

Special exhibitions will also be held routinely at The Gallery.

To keep abreast of Galleries in the Gardens happenings, follow Facebook: Galleries in the Gardens or check the website www.galleriesinthegardens.com.au
The Gallery is located 81 Marine Drive, Tea Gardens diagonally opposite the ferry wharf.

It is open every day except Tuesdays, 10am to 4pm.

By Margie TIERNEY