Gallery VIVA is proud to announce its upcoming community exhibition, A Celebration of the Stone Pine, delivered in collaboration with Art in the Park and Friends of Centennial Park.
The exhibition follows a special community gathering held on Sunday, 19 April in Centennial Park, Bathurst, where artists and art makers of all ages and experience levels were invited to respond creatively to the park’s iconic Stone Pine trees. Located on the corner of Seymour and Rocket Streets, the afternoon encouraged people to sketch, paint, observe, discuss and connect within the park environment, with works created to be exhibited at Gallery VIVA. Opening on Wednesday, 28 May, the exhibition will showcase artworks inspired by the striking Stone Pine trees that have become a much-loved feature of Centennial Park.
Originally introduced during the Victorian era, the Stone Pines are now firmly embedded within the Bathurst landscape, recognised for their distinctive umbrella-shaped canopy, colourful bark and edible pine nuts enjoyed by local birdlife, including cockatoos.
Senior Manager of Social Enterprises at Vivability, April See, said the exhibition reflects Gallery VIVA’s commitment to creativity and inclusion. “Gallery VIVA exists to create opportunities for connection, and this exhibition is a beautiful example of that in action. Collaborating with Art in the Park and Friends of Centennial Park has made this a genuinely community-led exhibition, which is exactly what Gallery VIVA is all about.”
Representative of The Friends of Centennial Park Peter Simmons said the project had grown from a shared appreciation for the trees and the park itself. “These trees are shapely, resilient citizens of Centennial Park and have become part of Bathurst’s identity over generations. Through this exhibition, we hope to encourage people to slow down, look a little closer and celebrate the beauty and character of these remarkable trees.”
Mr Simmons also acknowledged the contribution of Art in the Park, which gathers on the third Sunday of every month and welcomes anyone interested in creativity and connection. “There’s no cost and everyone is welcome”.
Artwork submissions for the exhibition are due to Café VIVA, 107 William Street, by 20 May, with the exhibition officially opening to the public on 28 May from 5:30 pm. All are welcome and attendees can RSVP through Humanitix.
