The Wilderness Coast Artists (WCA) are marking a significant milestone this month, celebrating the first anniversary of their studio premises at the Snowy Wilderness Discovery Centre (Rainforest Centre).
Since moving into the facility, the group has seen a rapid expansion of its creative program. What began as a twice-monthly meeting has grown into a bustling hub of activity, featuring regular open studio days every Tuesday, fortnightly drawing classes and a dedicated watercolour interest group.
Plans are currently underway to further broaden their reach with the establishment of a portrait group.
Coinciding with the anniversary, Marlo-based artist Louise Kidd has been named the featured artist for June.
A self-taught talent, Louise specialises in sensitive pastel pencil drawings of Australian wildlife and domestic pets.
one-year anniversary.
Her work, inspired by the intricate details of English wildlife artist Jason Morgan, is currently on display at the Orbost studio.
Louise, who picked up the medium a decade ago to accommodate her love of camping and caravanning, said her art provides both a creative outlet and a sense of belonging.
“I have made many friends and found a friendly community through my art,” Ms Kidd said, noting that her practice also serves as a form of relaxation and mindfulness.
Her work can be viewed every Tuesday during the group’s open studio hours from 10am to 3pm.
The group’s first year in the new studio has been punctuated by a series of high-level workshops, including sessions on watercolour bird painting with Melbourne’s Qing Zhang and colour theory with Cynthia Boyle.
WCA members have also been active beyond the studio walls.
Recently, the group joined members of the Melbourne Society of Women Painters and Sculptors for a behind-the-scenes tour of the Gippsland Art Gallery in Sale, led by director Simon Gregg.
Other members have participated in plein air painting trips to Lakes Entrance and Pambula, with one member set to embark on a tutored painting tour of Greece and Ireland this July.
The group’s talent was recently recognised on the state stage at the 64th annual Bright Autumn Art Festival.
Jan Martin received a Highly Commended award for her watercolour work, while Cynthia Boyle took out first place in the drawing category.
Looking ahead, members are preparing for major exhibitions in Melbourne with the Australian Guild of Realist Artists in August and a solo exhibition by Cynthia Boyle at the East Gippsland Art Gallery in 2027.
Community connection remains at the heart of the WCA’s mission.
In a unique partnership with Far East Victoria Landcare and the East Gippsland Shire Council, the group has completed a large-scale (240cmx120cm) collaborative artwork of a Gippsland Water Dragon.
The piece, which was partially painted by members of the public during the Orbost Show and Bairnsdale’s Immersive Festival, is currently being framed.
Organisers say a special reveal event for the community-crafted masterpiece will be announced shortly.
The Wilderness Coast Artists studio at the Rainforest Centre is open to the public every Tuesday from 10am to 3pm.
All are welcome to visit, view the works on display, or inquire about upcoming classes and workshops.
Louise specialises in pastel pencil drawings of Australian wildlife and domestic pets. Her work is inspired by Jason Morgan and is currently on display at the Orbost studio.
