The River of Art Festival is a well established flagship event on the South Coast calendar. Held in May, it attracts local, regional and national visitors to our stunning region to enjoy the artistic and creative talents showcased during the Festival.
In 2019 the River of Art will once again, in partnership with local businesses, host open studios, offer workshops and provide avenues for performing and visual artists to strut their stuff. A long-weekend of events will be held from 24-27 May 2019 with the traditional Art Trail of open studios, exhibitions and performances running before and after these dates.
The Festival has been running for 13 successful years. Begun by a small group of enthusiastic artists, it has now grown to over 100 programmed events. Three back to back South Coast Regional Tourism Awards attest to its success.
This year the Festival is being Co-Chaired by Eurobodalla locals, Robin Scott-Charlton and Di Jay who are calling for new, enthusiastic people to join the organising team. They are currently looking for new volunteers and helpers.
“Helping put the Festival together is a real buzz. We have a committed team of 6 already, and want more people to join us who are interested in getting behind River of Art in 2019. We really need a Secretary and we also want an indigenous artist, a young performer or artist, media people, someone who is marketing savvy, individual events planners and generally just people who want to have some fun,” said Robin.
“Please contact us now with your fresh ideas as we are already underway for next year’s event”, said Robin.
“We would welcome a local gallery or business operator, visual artists, performers, community members with an interest in the arts or local arts organisation reps. Everyone’s skills are valuable and you can give as much or as little time as you wish.” River of Art Co-Chair Di Jay
“Planning starts well before we call for expressions of interest”, said Di.
“Later this year we will be asking for events to include in the programme such as open studios, exhibitions, performances and of course, nominations for the annual Festival Art Prize. So artists should also be getting ready, thinking and planning, practicing, painting, writing, sculpting, making, singing and playing”, said Di.
The series of stunning events that make up the Festival and Art Trail succeed because of the wonderful artists, performers and supporters of the arts across the length and breadth of the Eurobodalla Shire and beyond getting actively involved.
River of Art has enjoyed huge support from local business partners and shopfronts who appreciate the value of hosting events and welcoming visitors and tourists to our region. Eurobodalla Shire Council, Destination NSW and our local Chambers of Commerce have been tremendously strong supporters.
“The Festival makes a significant contribution to our economy and sense of community and we could not make the River of Art happen without our generous sponsors. Next year we have some continuing financial support and we are also seeking new funding opportunities,” said Di.
The 2018 Festival featured live music, film, textiles (including the sellout EFTAG fashion parade), visual arts and crafts, workshops, performance, poetry, storytelling and cultural celebrations.
“In 2019 we want to see more indigenous artists involved”, said Di. “The primary 2019 Festival weekend co-incides with the start of national reconciliation week.
“We also want to foster art forms and events geared to younger audiences, provide learning and networking opportunities and encourage participation by more performing as well as visual artists.”
Anyone who was part of in the 2018 Festival program, with an interest in next year’s event, or in sponsoring some or all of the Festival, please contact us now at riverofartinc@gmail.com.au .
You might also like to put 7 December in your diary which is when Committee members will host a get together of artists and community members interested in the Festival to provide an update on progress and generate ideas for the 2019 programme.
For details of last year’s Festival visit the River of Art website: www.riverofart.com.au or email riverofartinc@gmail.com for more information.
