Continuously supporting and nourishing the creative capabilities of the artistic community, The Artisans’ Guild of Caboolture & District Inc has developed into a prominent organisation amongst the Moreton Bay Region. Celebrating 30 years of establishment this year, the Guild will be hosting a 30th Anniversary Members Exhibition for the month of May, commencing with an Official Opening on Friday, May 4.
Originally founded in 1988 as a means for individuals mutually interested in art to improve their skills across a variety of styles and showcase several pieces, for the last three decades the Guild has promoted the development of artistic talent and diversity through an array of resources such as helpful and knowledgeable staff, daily exhibitions, galleries and art classes.
“We feel the major accomplishments of the Guild are the bringing together of people of various artistic backgrounds, encouraging them to develop their talents by providing a venue for classes, and exhibiting their work,” says President Jacqui Ferguson. Humbled to be president during the 30th anniversary celebrations, Jacqui is passionate about, “Honouring the work that has been done to get the organisation started, and the years of hard work to keep it going.”
The 30th Anniversary Members Exhibition, which debuts at the Official Opening and will run for the course of May, will include ten art sections and nine craft stations. With participants showcasing only the best of their work, the judges will have a tough task ahead. Prizes include trophies for the champion art and craft works, as well as certificates for participants. “Due to the generosity of sponsors, we are able to provide monetary prizes as well as vouchers,” says Jacqui.
Approximately 130 guests are expected at the Official Opening, where wine and cheese, juice, tea and coffee will be served, along with a 30th anniversary cake. Various art pieces will be available to purchase on the evening, with entry to this memorable event only $10.00.
The anniversary celebrations don’t stop there. “We are also having a market in the grounds of The Old Bay Road Cultural Centre with the other occupants of the complex on Saturday, May 19th,” explains Jacqui. Sausage sizzles, stalls, music and a morning tea shop will be available for patrons to enjoy, while they explore the wonderful gallery and chat to the friendly staff.
With membership ever rising, the Guild is as active as ever, offering educative programs throughout the week including watercolour painting, children’s art lessons, drawing classes, craft groups, painting groups and imaginative art classes by various experienced, friendly artists. Future building improvements scheduled for the Guild’s Old Bay Road, Burpengary site will allow for the potential of more workshops.
“The future of the Guild is very promising,” says Jacqui. “The generous Moreton Bay Regional Council is in the process of calling tenders to extend the Gallery, so in 2019 we will have two classrooms, more space for the hanging of art, a bigger display area for craft, plus a new kitchen”.
For more details visit https://artisansguild.org.au/ or the Artisans’ Guild of Caboolture and District Inc Facebook page.
30th Anniversary Key Dates
Official Opening
When: Friday, May 4 Time: Doors open 6pm Members Exhibition When: May 4-25
Markets When: Saturday, May 19 Time: 8am to 2pm