in Unicorn Lane

ANYONE strolling past Unicorn Lane recently will likely have noticed it’s become more attention-grabbing than usual.

That’s because it’s currently adorned with the work of eight local photographers who’re showcasing their work in an exhibition called Up Close and… as part of the Ballarat International Foto Biennale.

The Unicorn Lane display of their creativity marks a significant milestone for the eight who have developed their craft in Melba’s Arthur Creative program.

It’s a regular workshop program for emerging and established artists with disability and is the creative division of Melba Support Services.

Melba’s Arthur Creative offers a range of arts-based workshops including photography, fine art, ceramics, screen printing and performing arts with the program also providing professional development.

Arthur Creative’s goal is for artists to exhibit within their community, and being part of the Biennale, which attracts international photographers and tourists, represents a major achievement.

Senior studio coordinator with the Arthur Creative program Gabby Hingston said the photographers found interesting and surprising locations and moments in Ballarat and are showcasing these finds in Up Close and…

“The photographers meet weekly and take photos all around town and surrounding suburbs and on colder days they set up in our studio and do portraiture and still life,” Ms Hingston said.

“Four of them have been coming to the workshops for many years and a few just joined this year. It’s great exposure for them, a great professional development experience.”

The work will now remain on exhibition in Unicorn Lane for the duration of the Biennale, through to 19 October.