Fig Tree Galleries precinct opening marks major milestone in Livingstone’s arts community
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A new vibrant and contemporary space for artists and visitors to enjoy officially opened its doors last night after construction began on the Mill Gallery Expansion in December last year.
The Mill Gallery Expansion project, with a total project budget of $1.3 million, was proudly funded by the Queensland Government in association with Livingstone Shire Council.
The old Post Office Building, formerly known as Mill Gallery, was also refurbished earlier this year as part of the project, and features a revitalised workshop and retail space, which is occupied by Paint Pot Gallery.
As a result of the expansion works and the evolution of the local arts community, the new and improved precinct had been named Fig Tree Galleries, to incorporate all three spaces.
The completion of the new Fig Tree Gallery is expected to support numerous artists by providing a contemporary display space for exhibitions and the opportunity to commercialise their work.
Mayor Andy Ireland said the completion of the project marked a significant milestone for arts and culture across the Shire.
“The former gallery space played an important role in nurturing the creativity of countless talented individuals, and we look forward to seeing this new building welcome and foster the arts community’s abilities now and into the future,” Mayor Ireland said.
“We’ve already got three exhibitions confirmed to commence from September through to November, which is a really promising sign of the demand and popularity that this new venue will attract.
“The expansion will also enhance the visibility and viability of the local arts community — hosting more local and touring art exhibitions and providing a fresh, contemporary and higher profile arts presence to the community and visitors.”
“Council would like to sincerely thank Member for Keppel, Brittany Lauga, and the Queensland Government for its valued funding support towards this important community project.”
Member for Keppel Brittany Lauga, said the Palaszczuk Government was proud to partner the Livingstone Shire Council to deliver this project for Yeppoon and the wider Queensland arts community.
“This new gallery will ensure the continued development of Yeppoon’s existing creative arts industry, as well as open up fantastic opportunities for arts education and exploration for those with a hidden artistic streak,” Mrs Lauga said.
“It will also create positive flow-on effects for surrounding local businesses by attracting more visitors to Yeppoon, and encouraging more arts exhibitions, events and workshops.
“The arts industry has been hit particularly hard by the pandemic, so now’s the time to support the community and empower local artists as part of Queensland’s plan for economic recovery.”
The first exhibition at Fig Tree Gallery will launch on 4 September 2021 featuring local arts group Latitude 23, titled ‘We Are Latitude 23!’.
Artist and President of Latitude 23, Nanette Balchin said the new gallery was a great venue for groups of diverse and talented artists to showcase their art.
“Galleries invigorate communities,” Nanette said.
“Artists, performers, writers, all provide experiences that people seek to enjoy and participate in and in doing so, they add to the wellbeing, vibrancy, and liveability of our community.
“I feel that there is a sense of pride in our local artists, especially so since Covid has reminded us all of the importance of connecting with others and expressing ourselves.”
This exhibition will be followed by the Regional Schools Arts Competition, ‘Creative Generations Excellence in Visual Arts Awards’ in October, and an exhibition from Lyn Ahmat, ‘Light on Landscape’ in November.
Expressions of Interest to exhibit in 2022 will be released in September 2021.