Work has started on building a $2million facility for the Macleay Island arts complex (MIAC).
The new state-of the-art building is tipped to be finished by the end of 2024 and features two new galleries, an office area, gift shop, commercial kitchen, artwork room, kiln and racking room and pottery deck overlooking the bay.
The new building is being built at street level with wheelchair accessibility, coloured outside panels, landscaping and modern lighting and effects.
Co-president Catherine Marsh said the building was the vision of fellow co-president Christopher Gilbert who had designed the new facility over more than three years.
“And he has done this free of charge as his way of giving to the artistic community,” she said.
Catherine said MIAC was planning a “spectacular” opening in 2024 with a month of celebrations.
“MIAC is all about showcasing the talent of these islands. We are very excited by this new building, built for the greater community to exhibit and grow their art,” she said.
The facility is being built using federal funding.
The original MIAC building has been demolished to accommodate the new structure and MIAC is currently operating from a temporary premises at shop 3/36 Southsea Terrace, Macleay Island, near the post office.
The current exhibition is in mini monochrome, featuring works in black and white. It closes on November 5.
MIAC has proven to be an artistic hub for the island, offering a range of activities, outings, workshops and exhibitions for its 260 members and broader island community.
Coming up is a decorating pottery workshop by artist Paula Bowie being held at the Macleay Island progress hall veranda from 9am to noon on November 19.
This intensive workshop demonstrates multiple ways of decorating clay surfaces using stamps, stencils, paint, slipwork, carving, combing, etching, wax, rice paper, found objects, brushwork and texture.
The fee is $70. Attendees are asked to bring a notepook and pen, plus three differently sized brushes.
The event follows Christmas sunset shopping from 3pm to 6pm on November 12, an ideal chance to purchase unique gifts including pottery, artwork, jewellery and cards. There will be carolling and complimentary gift wrapping.
