Central Coast Council is pleased to present a new exhibition Here and Now celebrating the talents of Central Coast artists who are living with disability.

Presented by Studio Gossie, the Here and Now exhibition will be at the Gosford Regional Gallery until 7 January 2024. 

Studio Gossie is a disability-led inclusive studio at Gosford Regional Gallery that was established to involve a community of artists with a disability.

The exhibition celebrates the work of nine Central Coast artists with disability that were selected in this year’s voluntary program to develop their creative practice by engaging in weekly workshops over eight months. 

The group of artists in the exhibition shining a light on artists with disability include Jacqueline Batty, Jane Forno, Casey Gray, Rachel Keith, Randa Magdi, Angel Muller, Genevieve Murphy, Benjamin Jade and Nerin Whitehouse.

Director of Gosford Regional Gallery, Tim Braham said guests should expect to see art that raises awareness of artists with a disability sharing diverse stories, experiences and connections of the community. 

“The public will be able to see how bold, funny, creative, and provocative artists with disability are which we hope to see will open avenues to them to make a living from art practice.”

Council’s Administrator, Rik Hart said the Central Coast is continuously improving the opportunities for people living with a disability to help grow livable communities. 

“Our venues are an important part of community life with buildings and activities everyone can access,” Mr Hart said.

“The Gosford Regional Gallery is a much-loved destination from a range of accessible things to do on the Coast. 

“Everyone is welcome for social engagement and entertainment through exhibitions, art classes and/or to simply admire the Japanese Edogawa Commemorative Garden.”

“The Studio Gossie program has been supported by Museums & Galleries of NSW’s Audience Development fund on behalf of the NSW Government Create NSW and Central Coast Council.”

The exhibition will run until 7 January 2024 at the Gosford Regional Gallery, open daily 9.30am to 4pm, with free entry.  

Guided tours of the Gallery are every Saturday morning from 11 to 11.30am.

Gosford Regional Gallery is wheelchair accessible. Level access from the car park and street leads into the gallery foyer, exhibition spaces and toilets. 

Assistance dogs are permitted in the gallery buildings and gardens