On Thursday 21st November, museums, galleries, and Aboriginal cultural organisations from across New South Wales gathered at Paddington Town Hall to celebrate the announcement of the 2024 IMAGinE Awards. This prestigious annual event recognises the exceptional achievements of cultural institutions and individuals, with this year’s winners showcasing outstanding excellence in exhibitions, community engagement, and accessibility initiatives.

Central Coast Council’s Gosford Regional Gallery won the Accessible Arts Award for Access and Inclusion for Studio Gossie.

Studio Gossie is an inclusive arts program that provided local Central Coast artists with disability a safe space to develop their skills and learn professional practices. Culminating in the Here and Now exhibition, the program emphasised accessibility through inclusive exhibition design, accessible paths, and artist statements at varied heights. Artists were also supported with audio statements and opportunities to speak at public events, promoting inclusivity and professional development.

The IMAGinE Awards provide an essential platform to celebrate the resilience, creativity, and dedication of museums, galleries, and Aboriginal cultural centres. 

Judges were especially impressed by the strong focus on community engagement, inclusivity, and accessibility—particularly among smaller and regional organisations achieving meaningful outcomes with limited resources.

Brett Adlington, CEO of Museums & Galleries of NSW, said the IMAGinE Awards continue to celebrate and champion the extraordinary efforts of our cultural sector. 

"The work recognised this year reflects an inspiring commitment to creativity, inclusivity, and community impact, strengthening the cultural landscape of New South Wales and enriching the lives of our communities.

"The IMAGinE Awards remain a cornerstone in acknowledging and celebrating the vital contributions of NSW’s cultural sector to the state’s rich and diverse tapestry."

Central Coast Council Mayor, Lawrie McKinna said the win is another example of Council’s commitment to inclusiveness for the community.

“We have a fantastic arts culture here on the coast, and programs such as Studio Gossie is an example of how our Gosford Regional Gallery is providing opportunities and spaces for artists with a disability to develop their talents and showcase them to the community.”

For a full list of the winners and highly commended visit:
https://mgnsw.org.au/sector/programs/imagine/winners/winners-2024

To find out more about Gosford Regional Gallery visit: https://gosfordregionalgallery.com/

ENDS

Image - L-R: Anna Seymour Education and Engagement Officer, current Studio Gossie Facilitator 2024-25, Jo O’Toole Gosford Regional Gallery Curator, Education and Public Programs Office, Studio Gossie Facilitator 2023, and Kylie Tung MGNSW Chair

Image credit - Jacquie Manning