The PBEAT 2025 Committee has announced Fiona Gavino as the inaugural Artist in Residence at the Pearl Beach Arboretum.
Gavino’s will create a site-specific work for the Pearl Beach Environmental Art Trail 2025, a project made possible through the Central Coast Council’s Creative Art Central program.
Gavino, an accomplished sculptural weaver from White Gum Creek, Western Australia, will draw inspiration from the Arboretum’s natural environment to create an artwork that reflects the Harmony through Nature theme for PBEAT 2025.
The work will integrate natural materials used in basket weaving with designs and techniques inspired by the surrounding landscape.
During her residency from March 15 to March 30, Gavino will also mentor Anna Seymour, a local emerging artist, guiding her in the process of creating specific works that celebrate the history, environment, and people of the area.
A series of community workshops will be held throughout the residency, allowing participants to explore sculptural weaving techniques and contribute to the art trail.
The workshops will share knowledge and provide an opportunity for residents to get involved in the creation of artworks for PBEAT 2025.
The official launch event will be on March 23 featuring cultural performances from around the world, honouring the creative spirit of the Arboretum and the diverse inspiration behind the art installations.
The PBEAT 2025 exhibition will run for five weeks from March 29 to April 27.
Artists are now invited to submit Expressions of Interest (EOI) for creating installations.
For more information visit the Arboretum website at: https://www.pearlbeacharboretum.org.au/pbeat-2025/pbeatforartists.
An experienced curatorial sub-committee, including Ann Flanagan, Life Governor of Art Gallery NSW and Board member of Biennale Sydney, will review and approve all installations.
A small entry fee applies, waived for not-for-profit groups and schools.
Generous sponsorship from Belle Property Central Coast has enabled more than $5,000 in the various prize categories including $3,000 for first prize.
Schools are being encouraged to integrate PBEAT 2025 into their art curriculum with two winning school entries will each receive a $500 prize.
Community groups are also welcome to submit proposals, though no prizemoney is awarded in the community category.
There will be a $1,000 People’s Choice Prize awarded at the end of the exhibition.
The organising committee is actively seeking additional sponsorship to support further community events and initiatives for PBEAT 2025.
Prospective sponsors are invited to contact the PBEAT 2025 project manager Fiona Morrison at pm@pearlbeacharboretum.org.au or 0451 145 262 for more information.
Visit www.pearlbeacharboretum.org.au for more information.