Eurobodalla Labor for Council today welcomed the latest gifting to the local community of a new piece of public art, a Terrance Plowright sculpture entitled ‘Ocean Exuberance’.
Mayoral candidate David Grace said Eurobodalla Shire Council’s (ESC) recent decision to install Ocean Exuberance near the entrance to the council’s premises in Moruya, as well as to place a second Plowright sculpture ‘Oceans’ at the entrance to the Basil Sellers Art Gallery was a sensible and positive move.
“The sculptures are said to be worth more than $200,000,” Mr Grace said, “but we recognise public art is not simply about the value or the money; it’s something that enlivens public and community places, local environments, and the region’s towns and villages.
“Eurobodalla has a thriving arts and crafts culture, which enriches our whole community. Every year the River of Art highlights our local artists in all media.
“We can hear our local musicians play regularly in our clubs and bars, and there is a thriving open mic scene at some venues which allows new bands to show their skills,” he said.
The existing Eurobodalla public art strategy which supports the important role public art plays in the shire is a policy on which Labor will build and further promote.
“We strongly believe in ESC’s commitment to the planning and inclusion of art in public, community, and commercial projects,” Mr Grace said. “It celebrates Eurobodalla’s rich heritage and is responsive to its cultural diversity showcasing the agricultural and coastal landscapes, small villages and towns, as well as the level of urban consolidation in some of our larger towns.
“There are regular art exhibitions at halls across the shire, as well as street sculpture in our major towns. And of course there are commercial galleries throughout the shire where you can see and buy local art and craftwork.
“Much of this activity is sponsored or supported by the ESC, and Eurobodalla Labor for Council will continue and further develop this tradition.
“Whether it’s the Busy Brushes, SouthEast Arts Eurobodalla, the Night Owl Quilters, the Regional Botanic Garden, Gallery Bodalla or River of Art or any other of the dozens of arts groups and organisations in the Eurobodalla, Labor will make a difference further supporting our thriving arts community if we are elected on 4 December,” he added.
Eurobodalla Labor for Council candidates in the 4 December local government elections are: for mayor, David Grace in Broulee; and as councillors, Maureen Searson in Batehaven, Matthew Findlay in Batemans Bay, Claire McAsh in Moruya, Deirdre Russack in Narooma, and Jack Egan in Rosedale.
Further information:
David Grace, Labor Mayoral candidate M: 0466 487 844
Deirdre Russack, Labor Councillor candidate M: 0402 423 520