Ettalong will come to life this month showcasing original art produced by local artists. The ‘Neighbourhoods Art Trail’ through Ettalong incorporates four creative initiatives – Changing Faces, Aquaculture, Coasting, and Here and Now – and gives locals and visitors a chance to explore and appreciate original artworks on exhibition in local businesses throughout April.

Central Coast Council Acting Director Community and Recreation Services, Glenn Cannard said ‘Neighbourhoods Art Trail’ will see the work of emerging and established local artists featured at many of Ettalong’s favourite venues and shops throughout the town centre.

“Ettalong is a perfect location for locals and visitors to enjoy the artistic expression growing throughout the area,” Mr Cannard said.

“The series of works have been commissioned from local artists that showcase a creative response to the recent global pandemic and are all about connection and belonging despite the then, disconnected world.

“Shared experiences are where connections are found and built; and we’re hoping to achieve this by linking our creative community to town centres so people can experience some local arts, come together and connect with one another.”

Ettalong has a unique history and ‘Changing Faces’ celebrates some of the people that have contributed to the evolution of the community over the years. The official exhibition can be seen at Velia’s Gallery, Thursday to Sunday throughout April.

‘Aquaculture’ is a community-based art project where local artists have interpreted the unique and delicate landscape and our relationship to it by creating sculptural works made from objects found in the waterways and along the coastline. These installations can be seen at the Bay Gallery, Friday to Sunday in April.

A local emerging artist has created a mural that will be displayed at The Box Café on the water depicting the unique landscape and connection to the area through his contemporary style.

The hidden beauty of Ettalong has been captured in the photographic exhibition ‘Here and Now’ and will be on display in the foyer at Ettalong Diggers. 

Council Administrator, Rik Hart said the ‘Neighbourhoods Art Trail x Ettalong’ is an opportunity to experience art, explore Ettalong and reflect on a shared experience through a unique time.

“This community-led initiative connects our creative community to local businesses and provides new spaces for their work to be showcased and explored,” Mr Hart said.
    
“Locals and visitors will see art combined with the wonderful food and retail experiences Ettalong has to offer and have yet another reason to head to the seaside town.”

‘Neighbourhoods Art Trail x Ettalong’ is exhibited in the local businesses of Ettalong from now until Monday 2 May. 

See the full program and explore the art trail by visiting lovecentralcoast.com/neighbourhoods-x-ettalong