News
28 January, 2025
Merging Somerset and global artistry into one
The Condensery, Somerset Regional Art Gallery, will present a collaborative exhibition bringing together internationally renowned artists with Somerset’s home-grown talents
Opening February 15, the Volatile Terrain exhibition is part of Somerset Council’s inaugural Harvest Biennial, an exhibition series devoted to themes of the environment and place. The project includes opportunities for Somerset artists and an extensive community engagement program.
The Condensery is proud to exhibit the work of Somerset artists Cassandra Hodgins, Jim Filmer, Naomi McKenzie, Sandi Hook, and Shirley Gregor in Volatile Terrain. The exhibition is guest curated by Cara-Ann Simpson, an artist, curator, educator, and consultant from Toowoomba.
Over the past 10 months, Cara-Ann Simpson has hosted curatorial discussions with the selected Somerset artists, including film photographer Naomi McKenzie. “It has been a privilege to work with Cara-Ann Simpson and The Condensery over the past 10 months,” Mrs. McKenzie said. “The opportunity to create new work that connects to the Somerset region has been both professionally and personally rewarding.”
A complement of artists from across Australia will enrich the themes and work of the Somerset artists. Invited artists include Bonita Ely, Dylan Sarra, Judy Watson, Kate Geck, Marian Drew, Megan Cope, Keg de Souza, and Pita Tina Yeganeh.
Arts Culture and Heritage Committee Chair, and Somerset Councillor, Kylee Isidro said Council was thrilled to present the inaugural Harvest Biennial. “This exhibition project came about through community feedback and stems from Council’s Arts and Culture Plan,” Cr. Isidro said. “Investing in Somerset artists and connecting them to internationally acclaimed peers through this opportunity is a fantastic outcome.”
The exhibition references the creation of Wivenhoe Dam and its impacts on the region, the need to conserve native flora and fauna, the importance of capturing our changing landscape through imagery, and much more. Volatile Terrain includes a suite of talks, workshops, and activities, led by artists featured in the exhibition.
The exhibition will officially open Saturday, February 15, 2025, from 4 pm to 6 pm. Bookings are essential. Visit thecondensery.com.au/volatile-terrain-exhibition-opening to reserve your spot.
