Following the hype of Benalla Art Gallery’s extensive series of events for the statewide PHOTO 2022 Festival, more nationally renowned artists will be visiting Benalla, this time as part of the Gallery’s Art on Saturdays program.
Visiting the gallery to present workshops in June are Mimi Leung and John Pastoriza Piñol.
Based in Shepparton, Mimi Leung works in a range of disciplines including drawing, illustration, mural work and collaborations in animation and clothing design.
Her work has been featured internationally, and in many recognisable locations, such as Melbourne’s iconic Art Trams and even on slurpee cups.
Benalla Art Gallery director Eric Nash said he was looking forward to the workshops.
“It is a pleasure to welcome Mimi to Benalla to not only expand our engagement with artists working in the north-east, but to highlight and share Mimi’s diverse and vibrant practice,” Mr Nash said.
“Mimi often works with movement to draw out concepts and ideas, and there is so much intricacy to the work.
“The technical skill of the artist is incredibly impressive.”
Also visiting is Botanical watercolourist John Pastoriza Piñol, a contemporary artist based in Melbourne.
“His practice departs from the strict discipline of natural science but continues to draw on close observation,” Mr Nash said.
“Having been exhibited extensively around the world, including across (mainland) Europe, the United Kingdom, South Africa, America, Asia and Australia, John will present a masterclass in Botanical watercolour art, particularly relevant given Benalla’s heritage listed Botanical Gardens.
Under the tutelage of acclaimed artists such as Mimi Leung and John Pastoriza Piñol, Art on Saturdays workshops provide an opportunity for participants to expand their current practice, gain new or hone existing skills.
Mr Nash said the program provided the region’s artists with development and networking opportunities.
“It is no secret that we have an incredible community of artists here in the north east who are regularly making and presenting work in many of our great spaces,’’ Mr Nash said.
This program is all about supporting the development of local practices, and also piquing the interest of members of the community seeking a new hobby, through an engagement with leading artists.
Workshops are available to participants aged 15 and over unless otherwise stated.
For further information about all upcoming Art on Saturdays programs, visit www.benallaartgallery.com.au/learn/.
To take part you need to register. You can do that by popping into the gallery, phoning 5760 2619 or emailing gallery@benalla.vic.gov.au