Berry Art Experience to showcase best

KELLY LANE – on work experience
news@kiamaindependent.com.au

SHOWCASING some of Shoalhaven’s best art and craft, the Berry Art Experience will be held this long weekend at Berry School of Arts.

More than 20 artists will display their work, including Kiama artist Philip H. Cooper, who will have six paintings in the exhibition.

Mr Cooper has been involved in the project for a number of years, but said this year’s open entry policy would ensure there was an interesting range of art included.

“I’ve always enjoyed exhibiting (with the Berry Art Experience) and I like helping Rotary,” he said.

Proceeds from the art experience will be donated to local, regional and international charities supported by Rotary, including public schools, the NSW Ambulance service, the Leukaemia Foundation and Operation Cleft Palate.

Rotary club member Walter Moore said the exhibition promoted unknown artists who might not have work in galleries, allowing them to display and sell their own art.

He expected that more than 100 paintings and sculptures would be exhibited, all of which would be available for purchase.

The art experience starts on Friday with a gala opening night, where people can preview and buy the displayed works before the show is opened for general admission.

Tickets for opening night are $25 each and include champagne, hors d’oeuvre and entertainment with a distinctly French theme.

“It will be a fun evening and give people a first look at the paintings,” Mr Moore said.

Shoalhaven artist Diana De Ville has donated her painting Cyclamens as a raffle prize. Proceeds will go to community groups and activities.

Raffle tickets and gala opening night tickets are available at Berry Pharmacy on Queen Street, or by contacting Neil Hartwell on 4464 2710.

The Berry Art Experience will be open on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 5pm and on Monday from 10am to 2pm.