Artists inspired by the ocean

BARWON Heads Primary School will turn into an artistic wonderland in hope of raising $10,000 for the school’s art programs.

The 2024 art show will showcase a curated selection of artworks by renown and emerging local artists inspired by the beauty, power and serenity of the ocean and nature.

The exhibition will feature photographs, pottery and painting by Barwon Heads, Torquay, Ocean Grove and Point Lonsdale based artists.

Chelsea Gustafsson’s work “Goggles” will explore the boundaries and crossover of the natural man-made worlds.

Sophia Legoe’s pottery harnesses the ancient elements of water; inspired by her early morning dips “Seaweed Dreams” references the feeling of swimming through seaweed, the texture of Neptune’s necklace and the ocean; ripples, froth and glass off.

Nikole Ramsay and Glenn Barry’s photographs explore the local swimming culture from underwater.

“I find great joy in capturing ocean images, from both above and below the surface,” Ms Ramsay said.

“My personal work is inspired by the beautiful landscapes of the Bellarine Peninsula and my obsessive love of ocean swimming, even in the winter.

“Living and working in a small coastal community like Barwon Heads ignites my connection to country and community, it is the greatest gift to be a photographer, doing a job that I truly love.”

Other artists set to be showcasing their works include Alice Bell, Mark Cairns, Andy Diprose, Anna Fitzpatrick and Alice Trow.

The public will have the opportunity to view and purchase the artworks either via online auction or in person on September 12 and September 13.

Coastal Currents will be held in conjunction with a children’s art display.

School principal Rob Bennetts said he was thrilled to be bringing such a talented group of artists together for a good cause.

“It’s going to be a great little exhibition!

“We are looking to bolster our arts program, particularly the performing arts as we can see that as being a need for the school moving forward.”

Exhibition organiser Fran Derham is also excited about the coming event.

“These artworks celebrate the culture that we live everyday here in Barwon Heads,” he said.

“We’re so lucky to have such talented, generous artists in our community who’re willing to donate their work and support the school.

“It’s a great opportunity to add to your art collection and celebrate our local artists while making a meaningful impact in our school community.”

To see the auction items, head to app.galabid.com/bhpsartshow/items