What an Arts weekend in Bendigo!The weekend began with two openings in the CBD within a short stroll from each other.The first one I went to was the ‘Art Blast’ exhibition upstairs at the new Viewpoint Gallery opposite the fountain, 13 View Point Bendigo.Walking into the quirky shop-cum-gallery was a treat in itself but one needed to climb the aged stairs in order to access the opening night venue. Here the first piece I noticed was a huge cosy and soft looking chair (by artist Isobell Sirianni ) where people could snuggle down into, should they so desire; I didn’t despite the encouragement of one young teddy bear carrying lady who assured me she had already tried all the cosy corners of the show. I was too hot to try, but given a cold evening it would have been hard to climb out of the seat.Photographs by Christine Sayer adorned the walls of the viewing space (a fabulous view of Bendigo could also be obtained through the windows of said place.)In a small passageway a computer was set up where the audience could read the work by blogger Kelly Robson on what the Art Blast project was all about, including the fact that tickets for the show (over the weekend only ) in the various venues are available at the Capital for $10.Next, a stroll up View Street led me to the opening of ‘Environs’ by a group of local artists. This show in parts took my breath away – both the 2 d ad 3 d works which was supplemented by the smell of incense burning. Unlike the Art Blast which is open only this weekend this latter show runs until 5th March so if you can’t fit it all in this weekend you won’t miss out.Then this afternoon I was fortunate to go along to hear Kyneton artist Daniel Butterworth talk about his work at El Gordo cafe in Chancery Lane. Daniel’s talk revealed an easy going, passionate and dedicated-to-his-art bloke. It was an intimate meeting with nibbles supplied by El Gordo where people were able to ask questions and discuss all things arty in an informal way after the talk. I am so glad I ventured outdoors the last couple of days even though the weather was so hot.Oh and by the way, for dinner last night hubby and I enjoyed a yummy burger from Grill’d where $5 from each burger was being donated to the Otis Foundation.A simply nice way to spend time in my home town.
Sharon Greenaway 