Three artistic voices unite at The Sands

A NEW exhibition at The Sands Resort in Torquay is drawing attention to the many ways artists used line to express place, emotion and perspective.

Titled Line in the Sand, the exhibition brings together the works of three talented creatives whose approach to mark-making, while distinctive to each artist, shares a connection to the natural environment.

Visual artist and printmaker Robyn MacKay’s drypoint etchings feature delicate, finely worked lines, while Linda Hunter uses inks and pen strokes so minute her pieces are often mistaken for embroidery or tapestries.

Linda Hunter uses ink strokes so fine her work is often mistaken for tapestries or embroidery. Photo: SUPPLIED

Taking a very different approach, impressionist landscape artist Andrew Middlehurst works with oil and acrylic paints to create what he describes as “woven paintings”. He uses repeated brushstrokes and layered colours to recreate well-known Surf Coast landmarks.

The artworks line the walls of The Sands’ main thoroughfare between reception and Spike’s Cafe, a space exhibition curator Cinnamon Stephens praises for its ability to display larger works.

“There’s a beautiful café and bar facilities onsite, so it makes [The Sands] a great destination and it’s wonderful to support local artists,” she said.

Impressionist landscape artist Andrew Middlehurst works with oil and acrylic paints to creates what he describes as “woven paintings”. Photo: SUPPLIED

This Sunday, November 23 from 1pm, the venue will host an artist talk with MacKay, Middlehurst and Stephens, offering art lovers a chance to learn more about the works, the techniques behind them and the stories that inform each piece.

“It’s wonderful to listen to the actual artists that created the work, in front of their work,” Stephens said.

“It’s a very informal gathering. We want down the hallway and the artist responds to the artwork, as well as answering questions.

Gingko Leaves, a drypoint etching by Robyn Mackay. Photo: SUPPLIED

“It’s just a wonderful way to learn more about different artists and their different techniques because every artist is so different.”

Stephens has served as The Sands curator since May and this exhibition marks her final in the role, as she turns her attention back to her own metalwork creations and art consultancy business.Line in the Sand will be on display until January 6.

For more information, including a catalogue of the works on show, or to register for Sunday’s artist talk, phone Cinnamon Stephens on 0400 436 308 or email [email protected]