NEW GALLERY OWNERS AT ARTWORX
NEW GALLERY OWNERS AT ARTWORX, GOOLWA
It was famous French impressionist artist Edgar Degas (1834-1917) who told us that art is not what you see, but what you make others see. One perhaps could turn this around and say galleries present fine works of art and we find ourselves looking at the artists.
Artworx, of Hays St, Goolwa, has always supported those behind the easel, pottery wheels and other tools of creation. It has brought a wonderful connection between the Fleurieu Peninsula and thousands of visitors from Adelaide and afar – making them see works of local artists, many of whom would otherwise be less known.
Now, after Stephen and Wendy Middleton created this stunning art gallery and gift shop from an old cottage in 2005, which was then sold to John & Liz Francis in 2015, we have new owners again – Stephen Allen and Belinda Seymour (pictured). Like art, the works may change but the support for local artists and the quality of works offered will not.
Stephen and Belinda are excited with their new venture, and in many ways not much will change in the gallery. Like those before them they have already created links that will consistently bring new works into the gallery, and have planned exhibitions starting with the SALA festival (South Australian Living Artists) with more than 70 artists already confirmed, a group exhibition in October, and a solo exhibition in December.
The connection with Goolwa, art and assisting people is not new. Steve has been a podiatrist for 26 years while Belinda has worked as a senior nursing clinician across various health care sectors. They have loved leaving busy professional lives in Adelaide for weekend stays in Goolwa – they now reside on Hindmarsh Island – and most of all have loved this gallery and art.
“We have had a house in Goolwa for five years,” Steve said. “We have always joked that the kids grew up and we left home.”
Belinda said that during this time there was reflection and wanting a change as well. “I love art; being around it and learning it. I love artists and creative people. I feel really connected to people who are creative.
“We love the people here. You get to know your neighbours, the people walking along the beach and you feel as if you belong. We have always felt a part of the community down here.”
There is definitely a shared appreciation for the beach, river and water sports – Steve is an accomplished windsurfer. Belinda adds they enjoy the south coast – especially the galleries and observing the works of artists. “You could spend a whole day in them.”
Liz and John will be staying on through a transition arrangement to ensure a smooth handover of the business. They will then follow the sun on camping holidays. Like Stephen and Wendy they put an incredible amount of effort into supporting artists, and now Stephen and Belinda will do the same. They too will make us want to see the art.
Ashley Porter
Publisher/editor
Coast Lines
M: 0402 900 317
