Working toward her first solo exhibition is daunting enough, but third generation artist, Silvana WiRepa will later this month open the Top Hat Art Gallery in Cameron Street, Wauchope.
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The gallery is currently used as a studio space.
After studying architecture and construction management and working in demolition and contract administration, Silvana sidestepped those careers that she found soul destroying.
“I am essentially a creative person and measuring quantities of concrete just wasn’t my thing,” she said.
“I also couldn’t sit for hours at a computer. Four years ago I made a life changing decision and went back to TAFE to do a Diploma of Fine Arts where I learnt about the use of organic oils from Peter Lankas.
“The methods he uses means that a painting can last up to 500 years before it may need any restoration work. There are no toxic chemicals or turps used.”
Silvana specialises in portraiture and on display from the grand opening night September 30 from 5.30pm will be her Archibald entries of personalities.
She invites artists of all experience to come forward and be motivated to show their work and book an exhibition which may include not only painting but sculpture, photography, jewellery, ceramics, textiles to even taxidermy.
“The gallery is an amazing space with natural light and ample parking,” she said.
The gallery will open on Wednesday to Saturday and will run life drawing classes of an evening for artists. Hens parties, plein air expeditions, lessons in organic non chemical use of oils using the old methods of the Van Eyck brothers from the 15th century as well as portraiture classes will be held on Saturdays.
She also offers a basic framing service for artists who might find the cost of framing, initially, formidable.
The gallery will also be available for hire for short 2 week durations and is planning to organise acquisitive competition(s) annually.
For all enquiries, call Silvana on 0467 700 307.
