Canvassing support for new artists

An exhibition aiming to give new artists a chance to shine opens at Collie Art Gallery tomorrow.

Watch This Space will feature the work of 35 emerging and established artists with 70 pieces on display, which will be the biggest exhibition staged at the gallery.

Gallery coordinator Payam Parishanzadeh said the exhibition was created to give new artists a “voice” and help to create a stronger artistic culture in the town.

“The major reason was to give emerging artists the chance to have their voice in the arena of local art,” he said.

“It has been conceived out of the conviction that the gallery needs to support local artists and have them show their works here.”

Mr Parishanzadeh said the exhibition had two-way benefits, giving artists a platform and also introducing the gallery to a wider audience.

He hoped it would encourage more people to become involved with the gallery and see the works on display.

Many of the artists in Watch This Space are from Collie but Mr Parishanzadeh also embraced the fact others had travelled to showcase their works.

“There is diversity and the fact people are coming from different areas in the South West is a good thing,” he said.

Works will be displayed across a variety of media, including 3D art, and prizemoney has also been donated for the best pieces.

Winners will be announced at tonight’s official opening.

The exhibition runs until July 17.