Splendid is one of those superlatives that I love. Superlative, in itself, is a marvellously expressive word, meaning "of the highest quality or degree". Geoff Hutchinson, of ABC radio's Drive Show, whom I ardently admire, describes himself as "an easily amused...broadcaster", is "a supporter of civility" and "delighted to host Drive". That Geoff is also a Dockers' tragic may not endear him to fellow AFL (Australian Football League) followers. However, he has been known to use the adjective "splendid" on occasion and for that, I could forgive him just about anything.
Anyway, I have digressed. The primary focus of this post was yesterday's launch of the Southern Wheatbelt Art Directory, a hard copy and online initiative developed by ArtsNarrogin over the last three years. Catherine Thornton, Cait Stewart and Dianne Strahan were all involved in its inception and they should all be so proud of themselves. Artist, musicians, designers, writers and performers from fifteen shires were invited to participate in this project.
We at the East End Gallery were thrilled with both the objective and the outcome. At the time of the Directory's print, our Gallery artists Natalie Atkins, Greg Burley, Gracie Courtney, Christine Davis, Jan George, Pat Lane, Shane Moad, Kelly Newton-Wordsworth, Michael Sofoulis, Dianne Strahan, Murray Turle, Beverley Vivian and Sharon Williams have been all acknowledged for their talents and skills. We hope to add a few more artists under the East End Gallery's umbrella as the on-line entries become available. Chrissie Gors and Denese Borlini are two who immediately spring into my mind.
The launch of the Southern Wheatbelt Arts Directory was a marvellous occasion for a myriad of reasons. The venue was airconditioned on yet another hot day and the catering was delicious with a licensed bar. The speakers were a lively bunch including Agricultural MLC Mister Darren West, who stood in for Arts Minister David Templeman and regaled us with tales of their comedy duet. And Kelly Newton-Wordsworth, who belted out three fantastic original songs to inspire us and give a sense that regional artists belong together.
That was the message that this occasion was announcing loud and clear. That we have worth, to ourselves and to each other. That we are connected. That support and promotion should not be one way or even a two-way street. Our network can be powerful and vital, alive and evolving and working in symbiosis together. This goal is the key to being a Wheatbelt artist.
Enough of these histrionics. For a moment there, I forgot my cynical self and was almost guilty of word wanking! Except, I do believe in the aims of the Southern Wheatbelt Art Directory. Along with this resource and art trails and events and newsletters and workshops and other promotions, we can help each other and ourselves become viable options for a day trip or a country weekend or a regional jaunt.
Come on, let's do this!
Mister Darren West waffling...
Kelly in full flight...
Relaxing afterwards...
Darren and William Newton-Wordsworth probably discussing world domination!
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