By Cameron Weston
A HIDDEN arts and craft scene is thriving across Hobsons Bay and an exhibition is coaxing closet artists out and into the public gaze.
The ‘Artcraft 2007’ exhibition, soon to open at the Substation in Newport, is designed to showcase the work of local hobbyists and enthusiasts, which would usually not be seen by the general public.
Professional artists, who normally vie for public attention and gallery wall space, are not allowed.
Substation committee member Margaret Trousdale said the idea for the exhibition came about after the gallery volunteers put their heads together, trying to think of ways to involve the community in the Substation Project.
“We wanted to do something for community members who are keen hobbyists, which most of the volunteers at the Substation are.
“A lot of people have pieces at home that no one ever sees. They don’t get any recognition because they are just hobbyists.”
And even though the artists might be amateurs, the exhibition will be anything but.
“We want to make it as professional as possible,” Ms Trousdale said. “We want to hang things professionally and make sure they are labelled as you would see in a gallery.”
While there will be no official judging (a sure turn off for the home artist) those who enter their work will receive a certificate of participation, and a Peoples’ Choice Award will be given.
Ms Trousdale said all kinds of art and craft would be considered for the exhibition, including ceramics, knitting, sculpture, photography, pottery and crochet.
To download a printable entry form visit www.thesubstation.org.au, or send an email to substation@vic.chariot.net.au or call Margaret Trousdale on 0414 502 657.
