Returning for its third year, The Painted River Project once again promises a unique and interactive weekend for locals and visitors to Moree.
The Painted River Project aims to blend the disciplines of art, science and culture in a collaborative exploration of the region’s rich and vital waterways. The first Painted River Project was held in 2021. The project is the product of a hugely successful collaboration between Bank Art Museum Moree (BAMM), Western Sydney University and the Monash Sustainable Development Institute.
Julia Minors, Art Education Coordinator at BAMM, explains that the event “entices some of Australia’s leading contemporary artists from their busy schedules to slow down and paint a river in Moree.”
The mission of the project is twofold. Firstly, to celebrate the region’s valuable waterways through art, and secondly, to encourage conversations and knowledge transfers regarding the cultural and scientific importance of one of Australia’s most valuable resources – water.
Ms Minors tells us that this year’s project attendees will visit Boobera Lagoon at Boggabilla.
“They will learn from local Kamilaroi knowledge holders and share in the cultural significance of the site to create artworks that will further share these experiences with a wide audience”.
They will then also visit Keytah cotton farm to gain an understanding of sustainable agriculture practices, before returning to Moree for a group discussion regarding the value of water in the region, and the future of water usage.
Resident artists for this year’s project with be Elisabeth Cummings and Sophie Cape. Ms Cummings and Ms Cape will both be attending the community art day.
The community art day marks the conclusion of the project for the year, and the invitation is open to all to participate. The closing event will be held from 9 am on Saturday the 1st of April on the banks of the Mehi River, in Mary Brand Park.
There will be painting demonstrations and workshops for those who wish to embrace their inner creativity. Some art materials are supplied, and some activities require participants to bring their own equipment. It’s recommended that participants check in with BAMM before attending.
There will also be science experiments, artist talks, kids’ activities, and a coffee van. Visitors are invited to bring a picnic rug or chair and settle in for a full day enjoying the peaceful and picturesque riverside location. For more information regarding the project, visit the BAMM website.
Something going on in your part of the region you think people should know about? Send us a news tip or email newsdesk@netimes.com.au.