A new exhibition celebrating the talents of Central Coast artists who are living with disability will be on show at Gosford Regional Gallery until January 7.
The Here and Now exhibition is presented by Studio Gossie, a disability-led inclusive studio at the gallery established to involve a community of artists with disability.
The exhibition celebrates the work of nine Central Coast artists with disability who were selected in this year’s voluntary program to develop their creative practice by engaging in weekly workshops over eight months.
The nine artists, who are also shining a light on all artists with disability, include Jacqueline Batty, Jane Forno, Casey Gray, Rachel Keith, Randa Magdi, Angel Muller, Genevieve Murphy, Benjamin Jade and Nerin Whitehouse.
Gallery Director Tim Braham said guests should expect to see art that raises awareness of artists with disability sharing diverse stories, experiences and connections of the community.
“The public will be able to see how bold, funny, creative, and provocative artists with disability are,” he said.
“We hope exhibitions such as this will open avenues to them enabling them to make a living from art practice.”
Central Coast Council Administrator Rik Hart said the region was continuously improving opportunities for people living with disability to help grow liveable communities.
“Our venues are an important part of community life with buildings and activities everyone can access,” he said.
“The Gosford Regional Gallery is a much-loved destination from a range of accessible things to do on the Coast.
“Everyone is welcome for social engagement and entertainment through exhibitions, art classes and/or to simply admire the Japanese Edogawa Commemorative Garden.”
The Studio Gossie program has been supported by Museums & Galleries of NSW’s Audience Development fund on behalf of the NSW Government Create NSW and Central Coast Council.
The exhibition will open daily 9.30am-4pm until January 7, with free entry.
Guided tours of the gallery are held every Saturday morning from 11am-11.30am.
The Gallery is wheelchair accessible with level access from the carpark and street leading into the gallery foyer, exhibition spaces and toilets.
Assistance dogs are permitted in the gallery buildings and gardens.