General News
18 January, 2024
Picture perfect
A COALESCENCE of local artistic talent has supported the establishment of a new art gallery nestled in the heart of Terang.
The Terang Artists Galley formed late last year thanks to a model which comprises artists from across the region collaborating to help run a not-for-profit gallery located in the storefront at the Commercial Hotel.
Through the collective, the artists not only have the opportunity to connect with each other through their love of the arts, but jointly lighten the load to ensure there is a permanent space for each to showcase their work to the public.
The gallery was the brainchild of curator Peter ‘Fozz’ Fotheringham after he and his wife moved to Terang around 12 months ago.
He had been part of running a similar gallery in Hamilton, which experienced success and eventual expansion to Portland.
Mr Fotheringham said he was inspired to try to replicate the success in Corangamite Shire after being struck by the unusually high number of talented artists calling such a small region home.
“We’re very fortunate to have such an eclectic mix of artists,” he said.
“As an art teacher, I am extremely impressed with the quality here.
“It’s so far above what I have seen in other places. We have some very talented people.”
It did not take long for the Terang Artists Gallery to connect with local artists, including members from neighbouring towns including Camperdown and Cobden.
The range has already seen the exhibition grow to include painting, jewellery making, photography, glass working, mandala and pottery.
“The gallery is currently around half full, with a lot more work our artists can bring in,” Mr Fotheringham said.
“We found there was an awful lot of artists in the Terang area and we already have 16 members despite only having been operating for around three weeks, so we’re up and running and starting to fill the place up.
“We’re feeling our way slowly with a soft opening of the gallery and will look to expand as we find our way.
“We’ve had quite a lot of people in over the first few weeks, and sold a lot of art already, so it is exciting.”
Members of the Terang Artists Gallery exhibiting their work retain all the proceeds of sale, with the gallery taking only a small fee to cover associated expenses.
This gives artists an opportunity to showcase their work to the public while also supporting sales and alleviating the pressures which can be associated with hosting a public exhibition.
“Part of the setup is helping people exhibit because otherwise you have to go and pay good money to establish an exhibition, and often travel quite a way, but this gives people locally a good opportunity to get their work out there,” Mr Fotheringham said.
“To feel appreciated for what they’re doing, to share ideas with other artists and get a feel for what they’re doing.”
Pamphlets are available at the gallery for artists interested in becoming a member of the Terang Artists Gallery.
“Come and see what we’re all about,” Mr Fotheringham said.
“We welcome anyone to come and have a look.
“It’s also a great chance to buy original, local artwork.
“Why would you want to pay for something which is being printed overseas with millions of copies being flogged off? Here you can own an original.”
The Terang Artists Gallery opens every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10am-3pm at the Commercial Hotel.
