Two new exhibitions ‘drawing’ interest at the Gympie Regional Gallery

The Jacaranda Acquisitive Drawing Award (JADA) is Australia’s richest regional drawing competition with a particular focus on stretching pre conceived ideas of drawing, touring from Grafton Regional Gallery.

From hyper realism, digital drawings and very abstract works, ‘JADA’ is a wonderful way to see how artists are using drawing to speak about contemporary mark-making. Many of the artworks on display challenge the notion of the traditional drawing, while others provide a contemporary perspective that reinvigorate those traditions.

From the 650 entries into the competition, the exhibition features the 56 finalists and the winning piece titled ‘This is Impermanence’ by artist, Teo Treloar.

Teo’s graphite pencil drawing reflects on multiple ideas, including his own experience with depression and anxiety, contemporary concepts of masculinity and draws inspiration from the master engravings of Albrecht Durer. Features in the work are intended to present a speculative visual platform for viewers to engage with; allowing them to deconstruct the image and find meaning on their own terms.

To complement the drawing theme, the Gallery is hosting an exhibition showcasing drawing from two of the regular Gallery Art Groups.

‘Sketchy’ focuses on botanical drawing and drawing the human form. Drawing is a fundamental practice for each of these genres. Gallery Art Groups are a lovely way to meet like-minded people and practice skills, in a creative and relaxing environment. Why not join one in the new year and kick off your creative journey?

‘JADA’ is on view from Friday, 3 December 2021 to Saturday, 22 January 2022.
‘Sketchy’ is on view from Thursday, 9 December to Saturday, 15 January 2022.

All are welcome to the combined opening celebrations on Friday, 10 December at 5.30pm.

There are two fabulous workshops on offer, ‘The Real Selfie – Portraits Up Close and Personal’ on Saturday, 15 January and ‘Drawing for Beginners’ on Saturday, 22 and Sunday, 23 January 2022.

Entry to the Gympie Regional Gallery at 39 Nash Street is free, with opening hours from 10.00am to 4.00pm Tuesday to Saturday.

For more information, or to make bookings for workshops, floor talks and themed activities, visit www.gympie.qld.gov.au/gallery or call 5481 0733.