newy.com.au – The Museum of Art and Culture, yapang will mark its 25th anniversary at Booragul on Saturday 14 November with a community celebration raising money for new artworks and future arts programs.
The In Full Bloom event will also recognise the 30th anniversary of the adjoining MAC yapang Sculpture Park and five years of the Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima at Speers Point Park.
The program includes workshops led by local artists, sculpture park tours, an artist talk, family activities and face painting. The Hunter Valley Ramblers will provide live music.
A silent auction will feature works by local artists. Visitors can also take part in a $40 “pass the parcel” activity, in which each layer reveals an original artwork for the participant to keep.
Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz said the anniversary was an opportunity to reflect on the venue’s contribution to the city’s cultural identity.
“MAC yapang has become much more than a gallery. It’s a place where people come together to share ideas, explore creativity and connect with the stories that shape our community,” he said.
City Art Gallery arts producer Jasmine Kean said the venue had broadened its activities since opening in 2001, embracing contemporary art, First Nations programming, artist development and community led cultural experiences.
She said its purpose of encouraging creativity and cultural participation remained consistent, but audience expectations had changed.
“Audiences now expect interactive experiences, artist talks, workshops, digital engagement and opportunities to participate, and we’ve adapted to meet those expectations,” she said.
The celebration follows the recent reopening of Awaba House in the wider Lake Arts Precinct. Food and drinks will be available there during the event.
