Cardinia Shire now has its own Art Gallery in Emerald to showcase local artists.
There has been a flurry of activity to get the old tea rooms in the Emerald Lake Park precinct ready as a Pop Up Gallery in time for the PAVED Festival.
Members of Emerald Arts Society (EAS), Hills Photographic Society and Cardinia Art Society (CART) have been hunting down their best art to showcase the amazing talent in Cardinia Shire.
It all became possible following the success of the motion at the last Council meeting on 17 March by Cr David Nickell to halt the demolition of the old tea rooms in the Emerald Lake Precinct and make it available to be part of the PAVED Festival.
President of EAS, Russell Simpson contacted the other art groups in the shire to see if they could form an alliance and make a call to action.
With everyone on board, the can-do approach of Cardinia Shire Council, some artistic imagination and plenty of elbow grease, the dream has become a reality.
President of CART Jillian Ronald has been advocating for a space to showcase amazing local talent for ten years and is excited to see that it has finally come to pass.
“The old tearooms make a great gallery,” Jillian said.
“It is set in a beautiful location and if you haven’t visited the park lately, come and see it in all its Autumn glory.
While you are there, pop into Art in the Park. We will be open daily from 10am to 4pm. Entry is free.”
The Gallery’s exhibition has been curated with the theme of Autumn in mind, but there is a great diversity of art on display, so there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
Each weekend, artists will be demonstrating their talent.
EAS President Russell Simpson said, “If you have a blank space on your wall and have been looking for a special artwork, come down for a visit to see what is on offer.
“All the art on display is for sale.”
The gallery also has a gift shop filled with bespoke items crafted by participating artists, which make great presents.
The Pop Up Gallery will remain open daily until 4 May 2025. The alliance hopes that this gallery will be so successful that it will remain open into the future.
To get to the gallery, follow the art signs up the hill from the carpark.
The Gallery is in the old kiosk and is about a 5-minute walk.
More details can be found online by searching “Art in The Park” at whatsoncardinia.com.au
