Hastings Valley Fine Art Association’s Tidal Rhythms was last week unveiled with just over 200 works on display at their rooms overlooking Oxley Beach.

The Association reinvigorates its exhibition each quarter, said president Bernice Daher.

“By regularly upgrading our exhibition we give the rooms a nice, fresh feel,” the president said.

“Our recent preview night attracted over 50 people and we want to build this up over time. We certainly want to get the message out that we are here and our exhibition has changed over.

“I think people are slowly realising the value of visiting us on a more regular basis.

“We are a bit of a hidden gem.”

Mrs Daher said pieces for the exhibition were drawn from its membership of 180 artists. Some were contributed by award-winning artists, while other pieces were from artists who had benefited from attending courses and tutorials the association hosts.

The president said providing beginner artists with an outlet for their creativity was one of the association’s success stories.

“We regularly have people walk into our rooms who talk about always wanting to paint and asking about opportunities that we offer,” she said.

“One of our roles is to encourage these people to get involved in one of our regular groups.

“We just want people to be encouraged to build on their skills and enjoy and get better with their art.

“And we are starting to realise too, that we need to have some of these introductory classes and courses on weekends or after hours so we can encourage people who work to get involved.”

Mrs Daher said the association has regular groups in Port Macquarie, Laurieton and Wauchope.

Hastings Valley Fine Art Association attracts some 3000 visitors each year to the gallery and sells about 10 per cent of works on display.

Tidal Rhythms is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am until 4pm. Entry is free.

For more information go to www.hastingsvalleyart.net.au