Friends of Tweed regional art bus tour

FRIENDS of Tweed Regional Gallery are hosting a tour celebrating the contributions of women artists in the Northern Rivers region.

The event, held on August 20, is part of the National Gallery of Australia Know My Name initiative, which aims to highlight and recognise the contributions of women artists to Australia’s cultural life.

Participants begin their journey at the Tweed Regional Gallery before visiting the studios of three prominent local artists: Robyn Sweaney, Helle Jorgensen, and Leonie Lane.

The tour aims to provide an intimate look into the artists’ creative processes and personal stories.

Sweaney said her work is about capturing something that is distinctly Australian.

“I paint houses that tell a story, reflecting how we live and the changes in our environment.”

“I consider my work part of the landscape, even though people might not see it as such.”

Sweaney’s work has focused on houses and urban landscapes for over two decades. In that time, the urban environment has changed dramatically.

“I’ve painted places that are now disappearing due to rapid development.”

“My paintings bring up thoughts about how we live and how Australians used to live.

“People often have a nostalgic or emotional attachment to the houses I paint.”

Sweaney says the detail in her paintings shows the personality and idiosyncrasies of each house.

The Know My Name initiative recognises the work of women across diverse creative practices. It joins the global movement to increase the representation and visibility of women artists.

The National Gallery touring exhibition Know My Name: Australian Women Artists will be on display at Tweed Regional Gallery until August 25.

To book a spot on the Know My Name: Artist Studio Bus Tour, head to events.humanitix.com/kmnbt.