Mount Gambier gallery Little Blue Wren has been recognised for its curation of a local art exhibition during this year’s SA Living Artist Festival.
The gallery was awarded the Hither & Yon Award for its curation of this year’s SALA award winning exhibition Forgotten Fables of the South East by Tyson Jay Brant.
The honour is awarded to a venue that has exceeded expectations in supporting artists exhibiting during SALA Festival 2023 in areas such as installation support, promotion of the artist, community engagement, visitor experience and more.
Hither & Yon’s Malcolm Leask congratulated the gallery on behalf of the judges.
“The judges were impressed by the family-run venue’s incredible efforts in planning, promoting, and running the exhibition, but also their commitment to elevating a local emerging artist,” he said.
“Tyson Brant originally inquired about displaying a canvas or two but was supported and mentored by Tabitha and Gareth of Little Blue Wren to develop his debut solo exhibition, Forgotten Fables of the South East.
“The exhibition was impactful, inclusive and community-building in a way that is only possible when a venue respectfully nurtures the artist, being a strong advocate for them.”
Gallery owner Gareth Williams was delighted to receive the award.
“We are humbled and thrilled to receive the Hither & Yon Award,” he said.
“We are grateful to the talented artists we are privileged to collaborate with and for the support of our community and customers who have made this recognition possible.”
A family run business, Little Blue Wren is dedicated to promoting the works of local makers, creators, artists and artisans.
The gallery is located on the main street of Mount Gambier and offers a gallery space to showcase local artist’s works and provides affordable workshops to the community, run by local artists.
“We are very proud of what we have achieved over the past 12 months of business. We are dedicated to fostering community creativity, supporting local artists, and providing a cultural experiences for our visitors,” Mr Williams said.
“This validation by SALA will give us even more motivation to keep pushing the boundaries of the art world by curating thought-provoking exhibitions that challenge conventional norms and inspire dialogue.
“Our plan is for Little Blue Wren to be a hub for creativity and a vital part of the Limestone Coast’s cultural landscape.”
