By Jacqueline Trewin
Noosa MP Sandy Bolton will unveil the first themed exhibition of Max Galleria featuring works from 15 Sunshine Coast female artists.
The long-awaited launch will take place in Tewantin this Friday 27 August from 6pm to 9pm till Tuesday 28 September.
Entitled, ‘Wombman – An Intimate Geography’, the gallery’s second group exhibition is a collective anthology inspired by gallery curator Maxine Stibbe who chose the theme to support recognition of women artists.
“While famous Australian art has a history of female artists, men have dominated the art scene and despite some progress, we’re still very underrepresented today,” Ms Stibbe said.
“The exhibition pays homage to the famous book, ‘Woman – An Intimate Geography’, which really affected me when I was younger as I am interested in women’s issues. It explores the essence of what it means to be female – from organs to orgasms – while dispelling myths and misinformation surrounding the female body.”
Proudly sponsored by local businesses, Scotty’s Pizza and The Imperial Hotel, ‘Wombman – An Intimate Geography’ will exhibit photography, painting, sculpture, jewellery, prints, mixed media, mosaics and ceramics, while bringing together a diverse range of acclaimed artists such as: Maxine Stibbe, Emma Sheldrake, Jane Parker, Sue Hoskin, Angela Davies, Mo Riggs, Charmaine Lyons, Djinda/Denva Eistreich, Meagen Mendels, Alison Taylor, Cortney Davids, T.S. Cargill, Susan Neuvonen, Marina MX Noar, Mia Hacker and Lizzie Connor.
“Focusing on the concept of this exhibition, artists take the opportunity to explore what the theme means to them – whether it be the body, the female (or male) gaze, a muse, the mind, a fantasy or a faraway place – anything that makes them feel happy, or in a space of comfort and knowing,” Ms Stibbe said.
Showcasing local talent is part of building a vibrant creative hub on the Sunshine Coast for Ms Stibbe, who has offered a mentorship to young artist, Courtney Turnbull-Davids whose work features at the upcoming launch.
“I wanted to create a safe space for Courtney to learn about the logistics of exhibitions and how to prepare her work in the context of a gallery for future projects,” Ms Stibbe said.
The exhibition will provide a multi-sensory experience for art lovers while exploring the collection amid the live soulful voice of renowned local musician Jeunae Rogers.
