A group of arts enthusiasts from Parkes is on a mission to develop a vision and plan for the arts and cultural development within our shire.
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The group - now known officially as the Parkes Shire Arts Advisory Council - is calling on all visual artists such as painters, potters, designers, photographers; crafts people; performance artists such as actors, dancers and singers; literary artists such as poets and writers; and film and digital artists, to join them in a special workshop this week.
Parkes' Cultural, Education and Library Services Manager Kerryn Jones said the workshop aims to gather input from all those interested across the shire, who would like to add their voice and help develop this vision and plan for arts and cultural development.
"We want to hear the voices of all artists, creators and performers so that the plan truly represents the diverse range of artistic and creative interests, experience and talents that exist," Ms Jones said.
"We will also be compiling an arts calendar of events, activities and exhibitions to make sure the community is informed on what is happening across the shire."
The workshop will take place from 6pm-8pm on Thursday, August 29 at the Astro Dish Motor Inn in Bogan Street. Light refreshments will be provided.
There has been a long-standing interest from representatives of the arts community in strengthening the visibility of arts and cultural endeavours across the Parkes Shire.
With some initial meetings taking place in late 2018, a group began formally meeting in 2019.
In May the Parkes Shire Arts Council was officially adopted as a committee of the Parkes Shire Council and features artists from the visual and performing arts, as well as representatives from council.
Margot Jolly has been appointed chair of the committee and members include Margaret Lewis, Bev Rowe, Rhonda Redenbach, Elly Tom, Annette Witherow, Warwick Tom, Lisa Ramsey, Cr Neil Westcott, Cr Bill Jayet, Cr Barabara Newton, Les Finn, and Ms Jones.
We want to hear the voices of all artists, creators and performers so that the plan truly represents the diverse range of artistic and creative interests, experience and talents that exist
- Parkes' Cultural, Education and Library Services Manager Kerryn Jones
There are more than 20 arts, cultural and crafts groups, and a number of practicing individual artists across the shire.
Ms Jones said the Arts Advisory Council aims to draw together these various groups and provide a cohesive voice to Parkes Shire Council about the needs of the artistic and cultural community.
Thursday's workshop will be the first action for the Parkes Shire Advisory Council.
"We really want people to engage with the Arts Advisory Council, to know that it exists, and to contribute their ideas to the bigger picture of arts and culture in the Parkes Shire," Ms Jones said.
"[All those artists and creative minds out there], come along!
"This is your opportunity to help inform council on the artistic and cultural needs and priorities of your community and to further develop Parkes Shire as a vibrant place where creative pursuits are supported and celebrated.
"Parkes Shire Council considers the arts to be an important part of a strong, vibrant and healthy community."
For those wishing to attend Thursday's workshop, RSVP to kerryn.jones@parkes.nsw.gov.au.
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