THE FRIENDS OF THE GALLERY EXTEND THEIR CONGRATULATIONS TO MIKE COLLINS AND THE WINTER FESTIVAL COMMITTEE FOR A MOST SUCCESSFUL AND VERY EVENTFUL WEEK OF FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES SHOWCASING OUR COMMUNITY.
On Friday 4th June the official opening of the Manning Winter Festival was held at the Manning Regional Gallery. The event was officially opened by the Festival Patron, Patricia Amphlett, perhaps better known as ‘Little Pattie’ who performed several numbers accompanied by pianist Mark Allardyce.
Once again the Manning Art Gallery was showcased at its best – a wonderfully versatile community facility capable of hosting a wide range of events including music and performance, as well as excelling in its role as our regional art gallery.
Despite the cold and rainy weather, approximately 120 enthusiastic supporters of the arts attended the opening, including Mayor Paul Hogan, several Greater Taree City Councillors, many business and corporate leaders and the 10 FOGS members who, led by Vice President Dusty Walkom, catered for the event.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Visual and Performing Arts Awards, designed to recognise individuals and groups which make significant contributions to the arts in our community.
Commenting on the evening, Festival Chairperson Mike Collins referred to Little Patti as very supportive and enthusiastic in her role of Festival patron. Mike also congratulated FOGS for their catering and support throughout the evening, as well as thanking Sue Mitchell, Gallery Director and her staff for their support in hosting the opening at the Gallery.
Anke de Reuver received the Visual Arts Award for her tireless work supporting the visual arts and the Manning Art Gallery for more than 20 years. Anke was nominated by Sue Mitchell and her nomination enjoyed the full support of all members of the FOGS committee. In particular, Anke’s commitment to the Gallery, the Art Angels, to the teaching of art and to her own work as a practicing artist in the Manning was recognised as an example and inspiration to others involved in the visual arts.
This image shows Anke being congratulated by John Holme, well known local artist and FOGS treasurer, who was also nominated for the Visual Arts Award.
The performing Arts Award was received by Pamela Phillips who has been involved with Taree Arts Council for over 35 years as an actor, performer, director, committee member and president. Pam is also very active in the Manning Valley Choral Society and in many charity activities, giving freely of her time, talents and expertise to enrich the cultural life within our community.
Two joint winners received the Special Arts Award, Taree Arts Council and the Taree and District Eisteddfod.
Formed in 1949, Taree Arts Council is noted for its live theatre and its annual performances, as well as its support of local talented performers and many local groups including Flair and Taree and District Eisteddfod.
Taree and District Eisteddfod has a distinguished hisory over 43 years and is the biggest of the country eisteddfods in Australia. The Eisteddfod enjoys the support of many dedicated and talented people, including Margaret Rogers OAM and Tim Stack, who has been president for the last 33 years.
This image shows Patricia Wolfenden being congratulated by Little Patti as she accepts the Special Award in behalf of Taree Arts Council.
INTERESTED IN MUSIC AND PERFORMANCE?
WHY NOT JOIN THE FRIENDS OF THE CON?
We are calling for volunteers who are willing to roll up their sleeves to work for the development of the Taree base of the Conservatorium Mid North Coast. We need people who will assist with mailouts, clerical support, computers and telephoning, social functions, fundraisers, performances, media and most of all, ideas.
The aim is to assist Directors to develop a Conservatorium which will foster musical education, performance and appreciation of music in our community.
A meeting will be held on Wednesday 28th July, 6pm at the Manning Regional Gallery, 12 Macquarie Sreet Taree. For further information contact Michael Scott, Project Manager, on 0411 444 236, email, michael.scott@cmnc.org.au, or collect a brochure from the Gallery.
GALLERY NEWS.
Currently showing at the Gallery until July 4 – The Bunker Gallery Gallery 20th Anniversary Exhibition, Natural Abstractions by Chris Russell and a Solo Exhibition from Tom Reid.
Commencing July 7 – Wildcard, an exhibition of outstanding works from the Greater Taree City Council Collection. There will be no opening night for this exhibition.
OPENING NIGHT ADMISSION CHARGES
At its last committee meeting FOGS and Gallery Director Sue Mitchell resolved that admission charges to future exhibition openings will be $10 per head with a FOGS concession of $7. Admission charges have not risen for 5 years and increasing costs for catering etc necessitate these increases. A current FOGS membership card must be shown at the door to gain the concessional entry.
34th TAREE OPEN ART EXHIBITION
Don’t forget the opening night for our local art show and exhibition next Friday evening 9th July, 6.30pm at the Taree High School Hall. Admission $8. Light refreshments will be served. Presentation of prizes at 7.30pm.
