GRAG puts local artists in limelight at exhibition opening night with new Mid West Arts Membership Program

Geraldton’s art hub will come alive with local artwork at its first membership exhibition on Friday night as part of the newly launched Mid West Arts Membership Program. A diverse collection of works from more than 40 Mid West artists will be available to view at the exhibition’s opening night. Geraldton Regional Art Gallery (GRAG) recently launched the membership program to train and offer locals the experience to have their work on display. A second exhibition, Interco — Codes in Parallel, will feature four groups who explore how craft communicates on emotional and physical levels as part of the Indian Ocean Craft Triennial. GRAG gallery co-ordinator Briony Bray said she was proud to bring the program to life over the past year with the help of the gallery team after listening to the voices of local artists. “This came about from lots of community consultation, with many artists coming into the gallery talking about how they wanted to be more involved and feel part of GRAG community,” she said. “The aim of the program is to bring together our artists, provide valuable professional development opportunities and networking events. “We are also extremely proud of how well-received the program has been so far, with 80 members signed up, and 49 of those are participating in our first members exhibition.” Ms Bray said the program was influenced by similar models in the Perth area that provided a membership for artists. “There is no doubt that the Mid West has a thriving arts scene and we hope to continue supporting and celebrating these artists through the program,” she said. City of Greater Geraldton deputy mayor Natasha Colliver said she was excited for the artists to have their work on display. “Having artwork displayed in a professional gallery is a first for many involved in the exhibitions and will be a great source of pride for our hometown artists,” she said. The free exhibition opening is at 6pm on Friday, September 12. Tickets can be reserved on Humanitix. Mid West Arts Members Exhibition 2024 and Interco — Codes in Parallel will be on display at the gallery until Sunday, November 17.