Arts alive in Umina

The inaugural Umina Arts Alive show was held at the Umina CWA on August 12.

Nine local artists, exhibited and all of them were on hand to talk about their work, all of which was for sale.

Arts Alive acted more like an open house for the artists and their work than a formal exhibition, with 50 people attending opening night to enjoy wine, nibbles and art.

According to Umina resident, Mr David Keig, it wasn't just the art community dropping in to enjoy the exhibition with people popping in and out of the CWA to check out the art on August 14 as well.

"It seems that anywhere on the Central Coast you just need to scratch the surface and you'll find so much going on and, in particular, a thriving arts community and a great many people interested in the arts," Mr Keig said.

Arts Alive convenor, Ms Sheelagh Noonan, described the exhibition as a "bit of magic".

"'Enjoyable, relaxed, interesting, high quality and a diverse' that's the feedback we had from attendees and the artists," Ms Noonan said.

"The atmosphere was warm and open, and the venue worked really well; visible from the road, easy parking, good light and great location, close to the shops and the beach.

"Everyone helped each other out, so it felt easy.

"It was a truly co-operative venture, and we all want to keep that flavour for the future," she added.

Planning for the next Arts Alive Exhibition is underway for October 1-2 in the same venue.

Arts Alive wants to hear from more artists interested in exhibiting.

"Some of us will exhibit again in October, varying the content, but we've got new people interested and we also want to hear from other artists out there working in sculpture, textiles, photography, ceramics and print-making, as well as painting and drawing.

"We want a rich mix of good quality art in many media," Ms Noonan concluded.

Email, 16 Aug 2016

David Keig, Umina

Email, 17 Aug 2016

Sheelagh Noonan, Arts Alive