Artists capture life on canvas

HELEN GOLTZ

Stuart and Wynne Gibson are two Illawarra artists that will take part in Art from 13 Angles, an exhibition opening today, March 20, at the revitalised Fettlers Shed Art Gallery and Education Centre in Robertson.

Ms Gibson, from Horsley, said her artwork was inspired by the ever-changing view of the escarpment.

“Stuart and I look up at the escarpment every day,” she said.

“I love the changing light-and-weather moods.

“I especially love the way people respond to its majesty.

“It’s like great widespread mothering arms that protect the Illawarra and enclose delicious places for bushwalking, beach-fun, playing with family, or just singing at the top of your voice without bothering anyone.”

Ms Gibson works in different media on canvas and paints in oils, acrylics and aqueous oils.

“In the ‘mixed’ art, I use everything from abandoned paper wasps’ nests to discarded train tickets and snippets of gorgeous fabrics that I beg shamelessly from friends and their mothers.”

But Ms Gibson said she leaves the watercolour to her partner.

“That’s his specialty. Stuart is also renowned for his detailed depiction of the state’s railway history and the people who made it.”

Ms Gibson credits her partner for getting her back into art.

“I’ve been scribbling pictures since before I started kindy,” she said.

“My sister and I earned pocket money from winning art prizes at the local show each year and by making little illustrations for shopkeepers’ window signs.

“My sister went into interior design and I ended up in teaching.”

Ms Gibson said once the children came along and she was working as well, art-time stopped.

“After several spinal injuries in the 80s and 90s I had to retire early.

“Stuart encouraged me to start painting again.

“It beats drugs hands down!”

In total, 13 artists will be participating in the show.

Fettlers Shed Art Gallery manager Penny Levett said the idea behind the show was to exhibit a collection of artworks that used different styles and mediums.

The Fettlers Shed is beside the Robertson heritage railway station on Yarranga Street, off the Illawarra Highway.

The former workmen’s shed used by railway fettlers has been transformed into a multi purpose building and art gallery.

“We’re hoping to change exhibitions every three or four weeks.”

There will be an opening party from 12pm on Saturday March 29 to which all art-lovers in the region are welcome.

Entry and parking are free.

The exhibition is open from 10am to 4pm on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays from March 20 to April 6, including the Easter weekend.