Women’s art showcase to take centre stage

An inspiring ocean art exhibition featuring local women and non-binary artists will prime art lovers for this weekend’s jam-packed Surf Coast Arts Trail extravaganza.

Shoulda Been Here Yesterday, which opens tomorrow evening (Friday, August 4) at Torquay’s Hoop Gallery, will feature more than 50 artworks from First Nation artists and other local ocean creatives and showcase a diverse range of artistic mediums including photography, paintings and mixed media collages.

The exhibition will have a particular focus on exploring women’s saltwater connections to the ocean, and convey unique perspectives and views of the waterways on Wadawurrung Country.

Shoulda Been Here Yesterday co-curator Jessi Rebel said she and fellow exhibition lead Ula Majewski felt honoured to be sharing their latest project with the community on the eve of the Surf Coast Arts Trail.

“I love the way that art can bring people together.

“Curating the exhibition with the intention of creating conversations about the ongoing impacts of climate change on Sea Country and our invaluable coastal areas just makes sense to me.

“It’s cool to have a bunch of really amazing local artists wanting to contribute to this space, bringing their creative expression of those ideas and visions that prompt us all to think about how we go forward to fighting and caring for the areas we love the most.

“We can’t wait to share it with everyone.”

Ms Majewski noted the importance of educating the community and promoting conversations about ocean awareness and protection.

“We can’t wait to show the works of all the spectacular saltwater women living in our area,” she said.

“Whether it’s surfing, swimming or diving, all the people exhibiting their works love the ocean and care for protecting it against some of the environmental crises we are facing.

“It’s going to be super exciting and vibrant visually for those who come and see it.”

Shoulda Been Here Yesterday will be exhibited at Hoop Gallery, 77 Beach Road, Torquay until August 27.

For more details, head to surfcoastartspace.com.au