ArtVenture: From Empty Shop Fronts to Vibrant Art Spaces
Published on 29 May 2023
Lismore City Council, in collaboration with the Lismore Regional Gallery and vacant shop owners, is proud to announce the launch of Lismore City Council’s ArtVenture.
The innovative program is set to revitalise Lismore’s business centres by transforming empty shop front windows into vibrant art exhibition spaces, showcasing our local arts sector and, importantly, supporting our local businesses.
Mayor Steve Krieg said works from Lismore Regional Gallery’s permanent collection will be reproduced and displayed on the windows of empty shops to help eliminate the negative visual impact of vacant premises.
“This initiative is designed to entice people back into our business centres by bringing a sense of excitement to the streets of Lismore and promote our cultural richness,” he said.
Lismore Regional Gallery Director Ashleigh Ralph said it was thrilling to showcase reproductions of artworks from the Gallery’s permanent collection.
“The artworks photographed survived the flood through careful conservation. In a way, these artworks have been brought back to life.” she said.
“We hope these artworks can also bring back a little life to Lismore while the Lismore Regional Gallery is restored.”
ArtVenture, aptly named, will evoke a sense of adventure and exploration, and invites participants to embark on an exciting art walk, discovering hidden treasures in unexpected places.
It promises a unique cultural experience that will leave a lasting impression on all visitors. The exhibition will cater to a diverse range of people, ensuring everyone can find something that resonates with them.
Expressions of Interest (EOI) from vacant shop owners who are interested in participating in the program is now open and close at 4pm on 16 June.
The program is coordinated by Lismore City Council’s Destination and Economy team, which will oversee the program delivery.
Further information about the program can be found by clicking here.
For more information, please visit Council’s website or contact:
Kelly Dymand
Economic Development Officer
Lismore City Council
Business@lismore.nsw.gov.au
02 6625 0445
About Lismore Regional Gallery’s collection:
Since 1948, Lismore Regional Gallery has curated an esteemed permanent collection, featuring artworks by significant artists, including Margaret Olley, Albert Namatjira, Jon Molvig, Lloyd Rees, Judy Cassab, Joy Roggenkamp, and Michael Zavros.
The collection reflects the unique stories, experiences, and histories of Lismore and the Northern Rivers region.
In February natural disaster severely damaged the gallery and its collection. However, through the dedicated efforts of professional conservators, surviving artworks have been carefully restored.
ArtVenture celebrates the restored artworks, bringing a renewed richness to Lismore's business centres.
Lismore Regional Gallery acknowledges the invaluable support received from Lismore City Council, Museums and Galleries NSW, Create NSW and International Conservation Services.