TWO years ago it was agreed we would have an exhibition of community wartime memorabilia and collectables in the Ballidu Lodge Gallery as part of the Anzac centenary in 2015.
The idea for the gallery exhibition has never changed but the Anzac commemoration has become a springboard for two other arts projects.
These include a community arts project reusing metal ‘flowers’ from a previous art garden project.
Thanks to the Sutherland family for this innovation.
Then to John Cousins for making new ‘poppies’ which were painted by the Ballidu school students.
Our new Landscape Art Garden installation is thought-provoking and especially beautiful in the evening sunlight.
The second arts project has involved well-known community artist Irene Osbourne.
In consultation with the Ballidu committee members, she has created four life-sized figures representing the army, navy, airforce and medical personnel.
These figures are installed at the war memorial.
It is hoped that the morning sun will cast long shadows from the figures towards the memorial and the setting sun will highlight the ‘poppies’ at the northern entrance to town.
Like many such projects in small communities, so many people assist, make donations and give of their time.
Thank you to everyone for your efforts in making such an exquisite contribution to this unique celebration in Ballidu.
The Ballidu Contemporary Art Society revealed the Anzac sculpture created by Osbourne at an event on Sunday at the Ballidu War Memorial.
Graham Walton officially unveiled the artwork to commemorate 100 years of the Anzacs and Brian Donnellan opened the Wartime Memories Ex hibition at the Ballidu Lodge Gallery.
The gallery exhibition will be open until May 9.
