With the closure of the Benalla Art Gallery due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, Sofles' Compendium exhibition, an integral part of the planned Wall to Wall 2020 Festival, is now on-line as a virtual tour.  To find out more about the exhibition go to https://poly.google.com/view/1OCO92ezljp.

"Unlock Your Creativity" has been suspended for the foreseeable future. 

Participants have thoroughly enjoyed the work with 'air clay' and have created a range of items from doll's furniture to bespoke drawer knobs, bowls, dragons and beads.

"Unlock Your Creativity" is the perfect environment to explore different artistic opportunities in a safe,  supportive and non-judgmental atmosphere!

Science is discovering more and more about how artistic pursuit (not the end product) allows our brains to relax, change and process our circumstances in more productive ways. It is therefore excellent for improving mental health and physical well-being whilst having fun and meeting new people.

Why not join us when we are able to reconvene?
$5/ session casual rate
$20/term
Friday mornings 9.30-12.30 during term time.

You get a say in the type of art we explore!

Sally Wallace
paddler249@gmail.com
0438 063185
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"Last night's Gallery Gig was pretty epic! I'm still trying to find the words to describe it.... @tobymobbsmusic began the night perfectly with his original tunes and then @tim_mcmillan and @wanderingfrog took to the stage and we all lost our minds a wee bit! '...you audience lot are a good bunch for listening with great respect to three hours of live music - 'hype guy' as we've affectionately called him was verbalising everything that we were thinking! What a night! And a reminder as to why I've been doing this. Because music is important. And goddamn it IS a form of art! "   Michaela Alexander, Gallery Gigs Coordinator. on Facebook.

Michaela forgot to mention that the night ended with a stirring rendition of 'Happy Birthday to You, Happy Birthday dear Michaela'... who turns 40 this week!  

Thank you so much for inspiring and producing such wonderful Gallery Gigs, Michaela.

'Women's Equality Cant Wait'  Maggie Hollins, March 2020

​Title       : Greta Thunberg leading the Next Generation  (work in progress)
Medium: Oil on canvas
Artist     : Tim Bowtell
 
Although this painting is not finished – there is more to do, the artist Tim Bowtell has kindly agreed to the request to exhibit it for this collection of NEA Studio Artists’ work.
 
This is a traditional painting with a contemporary and topical subject. Actually, the idea of a traditional painting with a contemporary and topical subject is traditional as well. Artists such as Delacriox, David, Picasso, Arthur Streeton and Juan Davila and an army of others have successfully stung the public consciousness with artworks which bring timeless ideas and values to the fore.
 
Jacque Louis David’s  “The Oath of the Horatii” (1875) depicted a Roman patrician holding swords upward for his sons to take in commitment and pledge to defend Rome. Originally exhibited in the Paris Salon, the painting created a great controversy which carried across to the evolving political climate in France at the time. 1875 was the year of the establishment of the Third Republic in France. The painting now stars in the Louvre.
 
Arthur Streeton painted “The Last of the Messmates” in 1928. The painting depicts a lone tree standing in a cleared landscape. Cleared as far as the eye can see. The land is littered with the trash of the former Dandenong Ranges forest. Streeton and the Australian painters of his “Impressionist” group focussed on the Australian land, the environment and its particular beauty. “The Last of the Messmates” was a protest painting, foretelling the end of the forestation of the Dandenongs – once called the lungs of Melbourne….
 
The centre of this composition is Greta Thunberg. The three figures on the ground in blue suits raise their arms and form a pyramid composition drawing the eye to Greta. Behind Greta are her followers. They are all young. She leads them away from the devastation of the landscape ravaged with fires and polluting smoke. The blue suited figures in the foreground attempt to stop Greta, but her eyes are firmly raised above their entreating arms. One of the raised hands holds a lump of coal.
 
This painting was commenced well before the current fire season began. Some people will find it quite unsettling.

This Saturday (March 7) we are so excited to welcome world class musicians and fine humans Tim McMillan and Rachel Snow to the #gallerygig stage at @northeastartisans 💫
@tim_mcmillan and @wanderingfrog will be bringing all of the songs and stories to your ears! Guaranteed musical magic.
😍
With local support act @tobymobbsmusic this will be a night to remember and we want all you lovers of live music to be there! Support live, original music in Benalla and keep regional towns alive with the sound of music 😜
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Tickets - trybooking.com https://www.trybooking.com/book/event?eid=594489&

Michaela Alexander, 
Manager, 'The Gallery Gigs' 

The two untitled works by Simon Klose  in NEA's current 'Upstairs Downstairs' exhibition do not refer to any specific experience or subject. They are intended to be autonomous experiences in their own right, although others may understand them through their own associations or experiences.
 
The works are intended to be read as an ‘object’ and a ‘subject’ where the object and subject are as close as possible to being the same. They employ the traditional relationship of viewer and subject, although they differ in that the smaller is closer to a pictorial representation whilst the larger work is enhanced by the wall on which it is located.
 
What may be experienced by a viewer at best will reflect the many and layered processes and decisions which have led to the present works. The process of their making employed sensing as well as thought, a form of engagement that best communicates making and meaning that is embedded there in the work. A work is completed to attain a ‘truth’, not simply a preference or a liking – that comes from having a primary objective in mind.
 
Then, I naturally discover beauty as well, so the traditional trilogy of perception, truth and beauty is there.

Simon Klose
Studio Artist 
Exhibitiions Coordinator
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​‘#15’ – Bruce Buckley
 
Number 15 is a painting from an image created by a photographic process. Using a photograph circumvents some of the problems artists encounter with drawing, but not all. Whilst the looking and putting of lines and tones is avoided the other pictorial elements remain. Composition, colour, translation of one medium to another.  The process brings its own unique challenges to resolve before a successful compelling image can be created.
 
Number 15 has some very close tonal values – the nose, the eyes and the number fifteen ticket are the three elements which allow us to see the image. They enliven the image, the rest is mainly the black hair of the coat.
 
The animal looks directly at us. Its baleful stare states facts and asks questions.
 
Simon Klose
NEA Exhibitions Coordinator

'Unlock your Creativity' is a new partnership program with Waminda Community House. Participants will be given a chance to explore a range of different creative experiences including painting, drawing, paper making, acrylic pouring, jewellery making....among many others. A full program will be available in the March Newsletter.
 
The program will run on Friday during school terms, commencing 21st February 9:30-12:30 in Gallery 2.
 
The cost is $50/term but Waminda members can attend for the member rate of $20/term (Waminda membership is $5/year and has lots of advantages).
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A $10/session casual rate is also available for specific sessions.
 
For further enquiries ring Sally: 0438 063185

Want to be a part of the Wall to Wall Festival 2020? The Wall To Wall Festival committee is looking for Benalla locals who have space for this year's artists to stay throughout the weekend. If you have a spare room and would like to be a part of this year's festival, please complete and return this Expression of Interest form by the end of February.m before the end of February.

Congratulations to Benalla Rural City for inspiring, to Killer Pig Productions' Jake and Sam Bowtell for producing and directing, and to the community members who took part in the making of this thought provoking and wonderfully edited, video which premiered at Benalla's Australia Day Event at BPACC on Australia Day.

With impeccable timing, Geoff Achison's Gallery Gig happens to land on the first day of this years annual Wall to Wall Festival!

Geoff Achison Music is an internationally acclaimed guitarist, vocalist & songwriter from Melbourne AUS.  .After serving an apprenticeship with veteran bluesman Dutch Tilders, Geoff released his first solo album Big Machine in 1994. He held some popular residencies around Melbourne most notably at The Espy and St Andrews Hotel. In 1995 Geoff represented the MBAS in Memphis, USA winning the Albert King Award in and scoring an endorsement deal with Gibson Guitars’ acoustic division. By 1997 Geoff had relocated to London and established a presence on the UK scene.

To combat the difficulties of travelling internationally, Geoff expanded on his Souldiggers concept, hiring the best local musicians available whether in the USA, UK, or at home in Oz.
In Melbourne he gathered what became known as the ‘A-team’ featuring the legendary Mal Logan on keys, the great bassist Roger McLachlan and the incredible Gerry Pantazis on drums. Inventive and adventurous, this line-up gained a reputation for delivering spontaneous and exciting improvisations within Geoff’s original compositions. “The songs are all designed to be fluid so they can take whatever turn we want on the night. To achieve this, the musicians need to play instinctively; from the heart. That’s what ‘Souldiggers’ is meant to convey”

The group has always had a home in the blues/roots scene but to call it a Blues band or even a Soul outfit (as the name suggests) is a misnomer. Certainly there is blues & soul influence at the core, but like many contemporary roots music acts, the Souldiggers transcend any specific genre. In 2014 the group celebrated 20 years with the release of a live concert album & DVD. Mal Logan departed for sunnier climes (in sub-tropical Queensland) and Richard Tankard took over keyboard duties. In 2016 the group was employed to record Geoff's next studio album. Featuring 14 new original songs and delving stylistically into blues, country, folk and a little funk, 'Another Mile Another Minute' has enjoyed wide critical acclaim (including 5 trophies at the 2017 'Chain' Australian Blues Music Awards) and provided more touring opportunities for Geoff in the UK and US.
​
Geoff also performs a variety of blues, soul and folk styles including some world-class original songs as solar acoustic shows. Performing with a simple acoustic guitar he also includes fascinating stories and anecdotes that have led him from shy country kid to international touring artist. He tells of finding his first guitar and ultimately jamming with musical heroes in New York City. Geoff relates these tales with his lively sense of humour and encourages anyone with artistic ambition to dream big and follow their heart.

Local support act Gabe Chowanetz will be warming up the night with some guitar shredding antics.

Drinks at bar prices.
Strictly NO BYO alcohol.
Tix available at NEA or Trybooking until sold out.
Under 18's must be accompanied by a responsible parent/guardian.

Merv Beamish enjoys taking workshops and during his time at NEA has presented workshops on favourite topics including abstract painting and making and using oil pastels. 

Over the years Merv spoke of his dream of providing mentoring support, along with other artisans, at 'drop in' workshops  to be held at NEA in which people would bring their own projects.   

Merv's dream became a reality over the past year when he and Irina developed  a studio behind their home and made it available as an 'Open Studio' on Tuesdays for mentoring support.  Whether arriving to actively work on projects or just call in to mull over matters artistic, a number of NEA and community members have enjoyed the chance to use the studio space and be gently guided by Merv and Irina.   

​For a number of reasons Merv and Irina need to take a break from offering their 'Open Studio' for the moment.  Thank you so much for developing and offering your 'drop in' mentoring concept  to NEA members and broader community, Merv!

An occasional BLog.

'Upstairs, Downstairs' exhibition, NEA Exhibitions Gallery,  12 January  to  7 March 2020 

A Date for your Diary!  Tim McMillan and Rachel Snow play The Gallery Gigs, Saturday 7 March, 630pm.   Tix Try Booking - https://www.trybooking.com/book/event?eid=594489&

In 2019 the 'Lessen the Pollution, Better Their Lives'; 'Identity', 'Postcards from New York's Hudson Valley', 'Postcards to New York' and 'Creativity Untamed' exhibitions all resulted from applications to exhibit at  NEA. 

We would like to invite artists or groups from NEA or the community to showcase work in our large Exhibition Gallery space in 2020.  There is a very reasonable weekly room hire fee; Curating and organising all aspects of the exhibition are the responsibility of the artist/s or group, with mentoring provided if required by NEA's Exhibitions Coordinator, Simon Klose. 

The NEA exhibitions for the year have not been finalised - quite a few months are still free. Applications will be considered based on availability.

Please refer to the Exhibitions Application below for details.

If anyone has any requests or theme ideas for NEA exhibitions this year,  please contact  Simon Klose 0412 545 656

Swamp-Hen Vignette  demonstrates Killer Pig Productions' ongoing development as film producers.    Jake and Sam Bowtell continue to challenge themselves, writing, directing and producing short films such as 'Swamp Hen Vignette' on shoe string budgets.   Swamp Hen Vignette  features  only three actors (Sam Bowtell, John Larkin and Owen Maclaughlan) and the old SEC building's corridors and windows,  The editing and use of music is skillful; the scene shot through the windows of an adjoining building particularly memorable and the use of graphics in the closing credits impressive.. 
​
Swamp-Hen Vignette is fast moving; skillfully edited and makes compelling viewing.

​The corridors and stair wells at NEA will never feel quite the same again! ​

(An occasional BLog)

North East Artisans is a community art space in the heart of Benalla at 122 Bridge Street.

NEA provides a gallery shop space for the artisans of North East Victoria to display their stunning creations; an opportunity for the community to shop locally; studio space for artisans; an array of special exhibitions throughout the year; regular gallery gigs; various art and craft workshops; and space for community groups to meet.

We encourage visitors to NEA to come in and enjoy the space, browse the art, relax and chat to the artisans and to get involved in special events and activities.
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Opening Hours:

Our GALLERY SHOP opening hours are subject to volunteer availability. The shop is open Tuesday to Friday 10am-4pm & Sat 10am-2pm. We open on Sundays and Mondays for special events. For visiting groups, gallery shop/NEA tours may be arranged by appointment.

​The RED ROAD CAFE at NEA is open from 9am to 4pm Tuesday to Friday and 9am to 2pm Saturday (closed Sunday). Whilst the cafe is open, visitors may still have access to open studios and the exhibition space. If the gallery shop is closed, the friendly cafe staff may be able to assist you with any enquiries.

The EXHIBITION GALLERY is open during NEA opening hours however may be unavailable if a new exhibition is being installed.

STUDIOS are open during NEA opening hours.. Artists may at times be found at work in their studios and are happy to chat to visitors.

Workshops at North East Artisans are offered throughout the year by local artisans who are either exhibiting in the NEA Gallery or are involved in NEA in other ways. To book into or discuss an advertised workshop, please contact the artisan directly. If you are unable to contact the artist, please contact our workshops coordinator Anne Longmuir via email jalongmuir@bigpond.com.au or via our facebook/website. If you are an artisan who wishes to offer a workshop at NEA, please organise this with Anne.

Please note:

• If there are not enough participants workshops may be cancelled at the Artisans discretion
• Participants (or guardians) need to sign a liability waiver prior to participating in NE.A workshops.
• B.Y.O snacks and drinks (or pop into one of the many great local bakeries & cafés).

Our core values include people, art, community, connectedness, sustainability, transparency, quality and inclusiveness.
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All are welcome at NEA!

"It's not easy being green" - Tim Bowtell reclaiming Greta - 2 January 2020