27 July 2022

Creative talents of Sapphire Coast will be showcased in 60 events for ART MONTH

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Sam’s Caravan, the Robbie Burns Hotel and Robyn Martin (from left to right) are all spaces or performers that make the Sapphire Coast a wonderful place for art. Photos: David Rogers.

Those who live on the beautiful Sapphire Coast know full well what a rich and diverse region it is when it comes to art – in fact it’s what draws many to live there.

The region is now planning on sharing its creative talents with everyone via ART MONTH Sapphire Coast, which kicks off at the end of July 2022 and will feature more than 60 events involving 150 visual artists, musicians, dancers, crafters, potters and makers.

The program includes events, performances, gigs and exhibitions across the Bega Valley.

“We all love the Sapphire Coast for our incredible beaches and ART MONTH is the perfect opportunity to discover our artists,” the event’s director Iain Dawson said.

For instance, visitors can walk through the bushfire-hit town of Cobargo and see the 55 painted poles that show the town’s recovery in a public art project which involved more than 30 artists and community members from around the region.

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Stick around the town for the second Sisters in Crime writers festival on 27 August, which will feature eight writers including Candice Fox, whose bestselling novel Crimson Lake has been adapted for the screen as the television series Troppo.

There will be the return of the Far South Film Festival in Merimbula from 19 August, which will showcase three days of short films from regional Australia, while Fling Physical Theatre will present its newest YFling production, titled GAME FACE, in Bega from 20 August.

A different locality of the Bega Valley will be the focus of an open studio trail on each weekend throughout the month, starting with Tathra to Tantawangalo and ending with Bermagui to Cobargo, while hospitality venues will feature live music and performances.

Mr Dawson said the program draws on the wealth of creative talent based in far south east NSW and has something for everyone.

“It has been designed as a platform for promoting and showcasing our incredible artists to locals and visitors,” he said.

“This year’s event is set to excite the senses and warm the creative spirit over our winter season.”

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ART MONTH starts on 29-30 July with the MOTEL Art Fair, which will feature 20 local artists selling their creations at Eden’s NIMO Hotel, and the event ends on 31 August.

It was held last year, but attendance was impacted by COVID-19 lockdowns and there are hopes to draw larger numbers to this year’s event.

For more information and to see the full program visit the event’s website.

ART MONTH is supported by Regional Arts NSW, Regional Arts Australia and Bega Valley Shire Council.

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