General News
6 April, 2022
Calling all creatives
A BID to boost the vibrancy at Terang’s Johnstone Court is set to become an ongoing feature after a successful collaboration between two local creatives over the weekend.
A BID to boost the vibrancy at Terang’s Johnstone Court is set to become an ongoing feature after a successful collaboration between two local creatives over
the weekend.
Rusty Spanner Studio owner Chelsea Pope and Glenormiston artist Jess Fowler joined to host a display in the historic space last Saturday.
Ms Pope said with surrounding shopfronts closed on the weekend, the court can be quiet and uninviting.
She said hosting a collaborative display with an artist provides a positive for all involved, and utilises the space in showing off the creativity and artistry Terang has to offer.
“We can help to promote each other and colour up the court because I have this space to myself every Saturday, so I figure we may as well use the space,” Ms Pope said.
“I hope to have a different creative in here every month and welcome anyone who would be interested in doing something like this.”
Ms Pope said she would love to provide the opportunity to developing artists as she knows how integral the first opportunities for exposure are.
“I would prefer younger, up and coming artists who we can help give it a go to,” she said.
“I want to give that encouragement to young creatives because I know what it’s like to be looking for an opportunity to put yourselfout there."
“Just to have a venue where you can set up and show people what you can do is important.”
Ms Fowler said she was thrilled to receive the invitation from Ms Pope, and enjoyed the opportunity to connect with shoppers.
“I’m very excited to be part of it, and very honoured to be the first Chelsea has asked to do this,” she said.
“I’ve had a really fun time meeting everyone. I love to talk so I’ll talk the ear off anyone who stops long enough to talk to me.
“At home my work is stacked up in racks and doesn’t get to be seen by a lot of people, so to be able to get it all out and show people what I’ve got is good.”
Ms Fowler said she supported the idea of giving younger artists an opportunity, and said it would be a boost for the town.
“It’s a brilliant concept because Johnstone Court is such a beautiful space.
“For it to be used more often, especially for something like this, is great.”
Artists who would be interested in being hosted are invited to contact Chelsea Pope at Rusty Spanner Studio or via the Rusty Spanner Studio Facebook page.