BVAC Open Weekend 2024: A Creative Celebration

Our recent Open Weekend at the Brisbane Visual Arts Community Hub was an incredible success, filled with creativity, community, and hands-on activities! Here's a recap of the fantastic events and workshops that took place:

Hands-On Creativity and Exciting Demonstrations

Ceramic Arts Queensland stole the show with their thrilling Raku Experience. Visitors were greeted with the smell of smoke as members fired and glazed their own pots. Under the expert guidance of Kirstin Farr and Di Peach, attendees glazed bisque-fired pots and watched in awe as their creations were transformed in the kiln. The event was a sell-out, with every pot finding a new home!

The Half Dozen Group of Artists offered visitors a unique chance to be sketched by Trevor Downes, who set up a sketching booth right inside our newly renovated doors. Visitors were able to take home a portrait and a piece of the event’s spirit.

Papermakers and Artists of Queensland added a bit of messy fun with their papermaking demonstrations. Joanna and Kris guided guests through the process of dipping screens into paper pulp, showcasing the craft’s unpredictable and artistic results.

Julie Shepherd, a renowned porcelain artist, shared her techniques in creating delicate pierced porcelain pieces. Attendees had the opportunity to watch, learn, and ask questions about this intricate art form.

Anna-Margot Collins of the Queensland Enamellers Guild demonstrated her enamelling skills throughout the day, showcasing the beauty of combining metalwork with colourful enamel.

Western Suburbs Clayworkers provided a “Play with Clay” station, inviting attendees to explore their creativity with hands-on pottery. Visitors could even try their hand at the pottery wheel under the watchful eyes of the group's members.

Upstairs, the Watercolour Society of Queensland offered an engaging painting activity that allowed visitors to experiment with watercolour techniques in a fun and relaxed setting. The pre-drawn outlines made it easy for everyone to unleash their inner artist.

Workshops and Activities

The Bookbinders’ Guild captivated attendees with their “Secret Belgian Book Binding” workshop, which quickly sold out. Participants learned the secret techniques to create a notebook that opens flat—a must-see for book enthusiasts!

Other standout workshops included Polymer Clay Buttons with Scott, Tallie Kumihimo Necklace Making with Helen Medland, Enamel Jewellery with Anna-Margot and Allie Collins, Acrylic Paint Backgrounds with Julie-Ann Barker, Slow Stitching with Susan Hoy, and Paste Paper for Bookbinding with Sarah Davies and Kerrie White.

Showcasing Member Groups

Throughout the weekend, several member groups had professional stands displaying their exquisite work:

• Sunshine Beaders shared their intricate beadwork.

• Scattered Arts showcased diverse artistic talents.

• ATASDA (Australian Textile Arts and Surface Design Association) featured beautiful textile creations.

• Australian Porcelain Art Teachers demonstrated the delicate art of porcelain painting, offering a glimpse into the meticulous process that requires multiple firings and careful layering.

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A Community Coming Together

The Open Weekend was more than just a showcase; it was a celebration of our vibrant artistic community. With most activities being free, it provided an inclusive environment for all ages and skill levels to explore various forms of art. Our specialised workshops offered deeper insights into specific crafts, adding an educational dimension to the weekend's festivities.

We are thrilled by the turnout and the enthusiasm shown by all attendees. Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make this event such a success. We can’t wait to see you all next year for another weekend of creativity and inspiration at the BVAC Hub!