Arts Upper Hunter “In Conversations with …”, Interviews with Upper Hunter artists and writers. Visit our Podcast page. First cabs off the rank are Roger Skinner, photographer and Simone Bailey, author. Photos left- Roger Skinner, courtesy of Roger, Right – Simone Bailey, courtesy of Simone.
Regional Arts NSW works to support 14 Regional Arts Development Organisations (RADOs) across NSW, including Arts Upper Hunter. This is a network of unique, innovative and passionate people who champion the arts and culture in their regions by providing support, programs and projects to those who live, work and play across regional NSW. We are…
After a much longed-for upgrade, the Singleton Museum will be open tomorrow to unveil a new look including a new exposed steel truss roof to help preserve its historical collection – which includes a marble bust of first Mayor Alexander Munro – for generations to come. Singleton Council worked with local building firm Perram and…
Female artists from across NSW are invited to submit works, in any medium, that respond toMeroogal, an 1880s house museum located in Nowra. Selected artworks will be displayed and photographed throughout the property, throwing new light on the personal stories of the people who once lived there. This year, SLM is waiving the artist entry…
The NSW Government has announced a $50 million Rescue and Restart package for NSW arts and cultural organisations to ensure the sector continues to make an important contribution to the NSW economy during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Premier Gladys Berejiklian today said this funding was the largest dedicated arts and cultural support package of…
Arts Upper Hunter is seeking original written and visual responses to the pandemic from writers and visual artists in the Upper Hunter for its website. Written responses can be poetry, prose, lyrics or script with a five hundred word limit and a maximum of two works per writer. Visual responses can be in any form…
As part of its response to COVID-19 impacts, Create NSW has brought forward its call for entries for the 2020 NSW Visual Arts Fellowship (Emerging), which supports NSW-based visual artists at the start of their careers, in partnership with Sydney’s Artspace. Up to 12 artists will be selected to receive curatorial support and mentorship from…
Martin & Jan Fallding, organisers of the annual Baerami Bush Dance, invite to join their the Baerami Bush Dance at Home. RSVPs are essential. The annual Baerami Bush Dance and Campout in the Upper Hunter Valley would have been this Saturday evening 2nd May 2020. This was to have been the 29th dance held. With…
Create NSW has announced new funding initiatives and the repurposing of existing funding totalling $6.34 million to support independent artists and small to medium arts, screen and cultural organisations impacted by COVID-19. Executive Director Chris Keely said that the sector has been an unavoidable casualty of restrictions aimed at ensuring the safety of the community,…
Winners of the Arts Upper Hunter Dance Craze Video Comp are Grace Booth, 12, Lula Peebles, 10, Annabelle Hunt, 10 and Rihanna Hunt , 9. Their team Crazy Glaze will share in the $500 prize. They all live in Merriwa and attend St Joseph’s Primary School in Merriwa. They share a love of dance and…
Now in its sixth year, the Affirm Press Mentorship Award will focus exclusively on Young Adult and middle-grade fiction (ages 9+) with sci-fi and fantasy themes for entries to the 2020 award. The three winning submissions will receive a week’s residency and manuscript development at Varuna, the National Writers’ House. The Affirm Press kids editorial…
Artists across the State are being called upon to submit expressions of interest to design new public artworks that will greet passengers when the 10 stations on the T3 Bankstown Line from Marrickville to Bankstown are upgraded to metro standards as part of Sydney Metro City & Southwest. Create NSW in partnership with Sydney Metro…
The Basil Sellers Exhibitions Centre (the Bas) proudly presents the Basil Sellers Art Prize 2020. Eurobodalla’s beloved biennial art prize returns in 2020. The Basil Sellers Art Prize provides a platform for visual artists living in NSW and the ACT. This prestigious prize has supported artistic excellence and creative practice for almost 20 years. Major…
Arts Upper Hunter is continuing to support local artists and cultural organisations. Staff are now working remotely. Mark and Sandra can be contacted via email and social media, or you can call Mark on 0409 382 509.
The following art events and festivals in the Upper Hunter have been postponed or cancelled in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Dungog Shire Irish Night being held by Bandon Grove School of Arts – postponed Read more…. James Theatre Dungog – suspended screenings until further notice. Read more…. Archies 2020 Opening Night (Dungog) –…
Please note that due to the CONVID-19 pandemic this forum has been postponed. Recognising how valuable the arts can be in improving health outcomes as well as promoting health and wellbeing in the wider community, the forum will look at the benefits of integrating the arts into the design and delivery of health and community…
The Singleton Art Prize has been cancelled for 2020. Presented by the Rotary Club of Singleton on Hunter, the 2020 Yancoal Singleton Art Prize is a painting and drawing show. There is a wide range of categories and a total prize pool over $18,000. Entries close 26 June 2020. For all the details including…
Playwright Ang Collins, theatremaker Frieda Lee and theatre directors Justice Jones and Claudia Osborne are the four emerging practitioners who will complete three-month theatre residencies ahead of one being selected as the first recipient of the Create NSW and Griffin Theatre Company Incubator Fellowship. The four will receive professional mentorship from the theatre company as…
NOTE: THIS EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED Bandon Grove School of Arts invites you to join them on Friday 27 March at their hall on Chichester Dam Rd for dinner (2 courses) and dancing to “Outback”. Date: Friday 27 March 2020 Venue: Bandon Grove School of Arts, Chichester Dam Rd, Bandon Grove. Time: Dinner 6-7pm, “Outback”…
Gallery on Dowling opened its doors on Saturday 15th February to a large crowd of over 100 locals and visitors to Dungog Shire. Jeanne Harrison and I were overwhelmed by everyone’s support. The gallery has a wide selection of original prints made with various techniques including monotypes, drypoint, lino, collagraph and etching. Visitors are invited…
Oil, water colour, and pen…. Maude’s positive challenge, imagination and thoughts are here on the wall in this exhibition of 25 paintings. This is Maude’s third exhibition at Small Forest. The exhibition will close on Sunday 29 March. Venue: Small Forest, 5052 Jerrys Plains Road (Golden Highway ), Denman Open: Saturday & Sunday from 10am…
Have You Got the Moves to Take Home a Prize? Dance crazes have been around for years and now it’s the Upper Hunter’s chance to have a go at inventing one. Arts Upper Hunter’s Dance Craze Video Comp is for young people aged 8 to 15 living the Dungog, Singleton, Muswellbrook and Upper Hunter local…
Singleton Library may not be the most obvious venue to spend a romantic afternoon, but that’s all about to change with the Singleton community invited to rekindle their library love affair this Valentine’s Day. From a blind date with a book, a special love-themed Storytime, to a pop-up Library and Storytime at Singleton Square, there…
Minister for the Arts Don Harwin has announced that regional and rural arts organisations from around NSW are to benefit from $250,000 in small-grant funding. The Country Arts Support Program (CASP) will fund 86 organisations to support community arts and cultural development. Successful recipients in the Upper Hunter region are: Singleton Council: Stories from Singleton…
The Scone Neighbourhood Resource Centre is hosting pottery classes for children. Dates: Wednesday – 12, 19 and 26 February and 4 March 2020. Time: 4pm to 5pm. Venue: Scone Pothouse at rear of Scone Arts & Crafts Centre, 63 Kingdom St, Scone. Cost: $100 or use your Creative Kids Voucher from Service NSW. Bookings essential:…
The board and staff of Arts Upper Hunter wish you a happy, safe and creative festive season. We thank you for your support and look forward to seeing you in the new year. Our office will be closed Friday 20 December 2019 to Sunday 12 January 2020.
In collaboration with the Singleton International Day of People With a Disability Committee, Arts Upper Hunter engaged Singleton artists Janice Hanicar, Hope Hardy and Julia McNaught to work with clients and staff from Witmore Enterprises Incorporated to create artwork with a bush theme. Artwork created during the four workshops formed the table settings for the…
Last weekend saw two exciting workshops to make and decorate tiles for the pizza oven at Bandon Grove Hall with community members of all ages joining in. Many thanks to Clare Tilyard and Alexandra Wade for their expertise and artistic guidance. The overall theme for the tiles was native plants and individual designs were based…
Did you know that as an artist or art group you are at risk of being sued if someone is injured when they visit your workshop or exhibition? Or if they suffer an illness or injury from the products you use? Not to mention any property damage that may be caused to the premises. Without…
Dungog Historical Museum has a section of the original wooden pipeline between Chichester Dam and Dungog. Well, as near to original as you can get. Many years after the pipeline was replaced, a 1.5 metre section was reassembled using the original materials – specially curved wood staves strapped together with individually tightened metal hoops. In…
Early career contemporary musicians, music producers, songwriters and composers will be supported through a new partnership between Create NSW, the Powerhouse Museum and Australian music management and touring company, Astral People, valued at $100,000. The Generations Fellowship will support three early career solo artists or groups to carry out six-months of professional development during 2020-21.…
Screen NSW is on the lookout for emerging filmmakers with disability to produce shorts that could premiere at the 67th Sydney Film Festival in 2020. The Screenability Film Fund is now open for a third year of applications, offering up to three teams $30,000 each in production finance, the services of an appointed experienced Executive…
Small Forest Wines is proud to present this exhibition of photos from local resident Jason Datson. The photos were from a family holiday in Japan. Dates: 1 November to 31 December 2019 Venue: Small Forest Wines Cellar Door Gallery, 5052 Jerrys Plains Road, Denman. Open: Saturday & Sunday from 10am to 4pm More details: Please…
Morrigan Raine is a musician / singer songwriter and audio engineer based in Muswellbrook, Hunter Valley, NSW. She writes and produces her own music and describes her music as multi-genre. Morrigan has a rich cultural background, having been born in Europe and raised in the Middle East, which is often reflected in her music. Morrigan…
Sunday 24th November 2019 Sacred Spaces, Singleton. Doors open at 1.30pm. Tickets and more information: https://www.southcoasttickets.com.au/events/tangosingleton/ Internationally acclaimed pianist, Nicholas Young and renowned 10 String Guitarist Matthew Fagan return with a new program featuring Spanish classical to flamenco, Tango and modern jazz. Continuing their ground-breaking 2018 tour collaborations including SOLD OUT shows at the Sydney…
Friday 25 October 2019, 2 to 6pm. Scone Grammar School, Kingdom St, Scone. Free Entry Students’ artworks will be exhibited and also for sale. Enjoy musical and dance performances too. The Grammar Grind Cafe will be providing Dinner boxes, desserts and drinks and the Scone Grammar School P&F Association will be on the BBQ for…
A weekend of film and country hospitality – Blue Heeler Film Festival celebrating creativity in the Upper Hunter Escape the city for the weekend and head to the Upper Hunter to celebrate the talent of filmmakers nationwide at Muswellbrook’s Blue Heeler Film Festival – on Saturday, 19 October, 2019. There are plenty of wonderful places…
Saturday 2nd November 2019 Civic Centre, Singleton Doors open from 6pm and a start time of 6.30pm The annual Bands In Concert showcases the Singleton Town Band. This year sees the 141st year of continuous operation of Singleton Town Band, making it one of the longest continuously operating community run bands, not only in NSW…
From 31 October – 3 November, Regional Arts NSW be hosting an inspiring two-day Speakers Program that explores the themes of On Country – In Country and Arts in the Age of Uncertainty. Accompanying the Speakers Program will be a diverse Arts Program that showcases the work of creatives from across the New England region.…
Many thanks to Alicia, Debbie and Steve from Choo Choo Troupe for six great shows of “You’ll Never Guess Where I Hid The Cheese” in Dungog, Singleton, Muswellbrook, Merriwa, Scone and Murrurundi. With the enthusiastic help of the audience, Bobbi and Wanda finally defeated the evil (but funny) Mr Cheesehead. Or did they?! Many thanks…
On a recent visit to the Denman and District Heritage Village, Sandra from our office was asked if she had any idea what these discs could be? The discs are different sizes, heavy, and there is an indentation in the centre of each disc but the back of the disc is smooth. The collection was…
Dungog-Clarence Town CWA again presents its popular Quiltarama at the Clarence Town School of Arts Hall, Grey Street, Clarence Town and the Senior Citizens Centre, directly behind the Hall on Saturday 12 October and Sunday 13 October 2019 –doors open Saturday 10am – 4pm, Sunday 10am – 3pm. Come along and enjoy the wonderful display…
Book your seats for Choo Choo Troupe’s hilarious family show “You’ll Never Guess Where I Hid the Cheese” being presented by Arts Upper Hunter. Tickets are $5 online ( plus booking fee). See booking links below. All shows start at 6pm. James Theatre, Dungog – Monday 23 September – click here Singleton Youth Venue, Singleton…
From World War II, to our town’s theatrical past, there’s a distinctly Singleton flavour embedded within the exhibitions at Singleton Public Library this History Week. From 31 August – 8 September 2019, the Library, in partnership with the History Council of NSW will provide a chance for the community to reflect on the history and…
Muswellbrook Shire Council is gearing up for the annual Blue Heeler Film Festival this October and emerging creatives are invited to enter their short films and animations in this story rich rural festival. Filmmakers have the chance to win the first prize of $10,000 and the coveted Bluey Award in the open category. Films can…
Local author Simone Bailey will be launching her fourth book, “Howling on a Concrete Moon” on Friday 20 September 2019 at the Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre at 6pm. Please call Simone on 0457 043 240 to RSVP. Howling on a Concrete Moon by Simone Bailey Memoirs are generally written by people who are well…
Sunday 8 September 2019 at 2pm Sacred Spaces at the Sisters of Mercy Convent 30 Queen Street, Singleton, Hunter Valley Tickets include a delicious Convent-made afternoon tea: $30 adult, $5 school student. And can be booked at trybooking.com/501824 or purchased at the gate from 1.30pm. The Djangologists perform music inspired by jazz legend Django…
‘Fearless’ Australians with disability who are smashing stereotypes are being invited to tell their stories as part of the Fearless Films: Season 2 project that aims to empower and inspire people to pursue their dreams. Not-for-profit organisations Feros Care and Screenworks are again partnering for a second season of the Fearless Films series – and…
As Benjamin Singleton would have celebrated his 231st birthday on 7 August, Singleton Council is encouraging individuals, community groups, organisations and businesses to get involved in the bicentennial of the arrival of the European exploration party to Whittingham in 1820. Overseen by the Singleton Bicentennial Commemorations Working Group, Back to Singleton 2020 is a whole-of-community…
‘The Pied Piper of Hamelin’ & ‘The Loaded Dog’ Classic stories accompanied by live music in the stunning Chapel at Sacred Spaces at the Sisters of Mercy Convent 30 Queen Street, Singleton on Saturday 10 August at 2pm. With conductor Ian Cook and narrators Carl Caulfield & Ghillian Sullivan. Music from popular family movies will…
The Odyssey exhibition featuring Upper Hunter artists Anne Bray, Janice Hanicar, Hope Hardy and Julia McNaught opens 6pm on Saturday 31 August 2019 at the Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre. ” Odyssey” was inspired by the result of an eventful, adventurous journey which focused on the experiences of drawing, collecting and painting en plein air. It…
Create NSW funding rounds open Monday 5 August 2019. Create NSW is encouraging anyone looking to apply for funding to attend a session. • Redfern | Tuesday 23 July, 2.00pm – 4.00pm • Bankstown | Thursday 25 July, 4.00pm – 6.00pm • Wollongong | Tuesday 30 July, 4.30pm – 6.30pm • Newcastle | Wednesday 31…
In July Arts Upper Hunter engaged Tantrum Youth Arts to run two whole day school drama workshops culminating in performances for other students. Many thanks to Melissa Whiteman at Denman Public School, Corralee Kerrigan at Aberdeen Public School, James Chapman and Alexandra Rose from Tantrum Youth Arts and Year 5 and 6 participants. Photo:…
Arts Upper Hunter (AUH) is one of fourteen not for profit Regional Arts Development Organisations funded by the NSW government. Servicing the LGAs of Dungog, Singleton, Muswellbrook and Upper Hunter, it also receives contributions from the councils in those LGAs. AUH’s volunteer board of management employs two permanent staff and artists/presenters contracted to run workshops…
A flag raising ceremony, traditional dancing, croc encounter show and petting zoo headlined Singleton’s biggest ever NAIDOC Week event on Wednesday, where over 500 people gathered on the Civic Lawn in celebration of the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Mayor of Singleton, Cr Sue Moore joined local indigenous community…
Applications for the Regional Arts Fund (RAF) opened on the 30 June 2019. The RAF is an Australian government supported grant that encourages sustainable cultural development in regional and remote Australia and meets the strategic priorities of supporting participation in, and access to, the arts and encouraging greater private sector support for the arts. It…
Box office hit screen director to tutor early career regional screen directors. Kriv Stenders (Danger Close, Red Dog), one of Australia’s most renowned and critically acclaimed Screen Directors will be a guest tutor at Screenworks Directing Intensive in Byron Bay on 24th and 25th August 2019. Along with a leading Australian Documentary Directory who is…
The Hunter Poetry Slam is expanding across the region in 2019 with six free workshops to be held in Muswellbrook, Scone, Singleton, Newcastle, Maitland and Wallsend in mid July. Poets across the Hunter will have the opportunity to hone their poetry writing and performance skills with workshops at Muswellbrook Library, Scone Council Chambers, Singleton Public…
Join the Lower Clarence Valley Rising Stars in a concert of Opera Highlights in the stunning Chapel at Sacred Spaces at the Sisters of Mercy Convent, 30 Queen Street, Singleton on Saturday 13 July at 2pm. Join Rising Stars Troy Castle, Michelle Ryan, Emma Short, Connor Willmore and Madeleine Short for a divine afternoon of…
Visual artists at the start of their careers are encouraged to apply for the Create NSW and Artspace 2019 NSW Visual Arts Fellowship (Emerging). This Fellowship is aimed at providing early-career artists with an opportunity to undertake a program of professional development supporting personal and career advancement. Create NSW Executive Director, Investment and Engagement, Elizabeth…
Entries are now open for the 55th Scone Art Prize. Roger Skinner, secretary of the Scone Arts & Crafts said, “With an increase across the board in prize money offered the Scone Art & Crafts Committee are looking forward to a better than ever response to the 2019 prize and are excited to see such…
Sculptures in the Garden is pleased to announce that artists are now officially invited to submit their works for this year’s exhibition. Held on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th October for its 9th consecutive year, it is expected to be the biggest year yet. Sculptures in the Garden is arguably the largest and most renowned…
Applications are now being accepted for the Country Arts Support Program, an annual small grants program administered by Regional Arts NSW on behalf of Create NSW. The Country Arts Support Program (CASP) is a Create NSW initiative that supports a creative, vibrant and resilient NSW arts and cultural sector that engages with diverse audiences and…
Arts Upper Hunter is hosting a photographic exhibition by Apple Blossom Photography in its office foyer at 142 Bridge St, Muswellbrook. David Hamson based in Muswellbrook and Lynda Lomax based on the Central Coast have decided to combine their interest and passion for photography, collaborating together to form Apple Blossom Photography. David has been taking photos…
The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences is organizing two museum practice workshops. Museum social media workshop and storage tour Date: Wednesday 24 July Time: 10am-2.30pm Where: Museum Discovery Centre Price: Adults $55, MAAS members $42 Booking and information: https://maas.museum/program/museum-social-media-workshop-and-tour/ MAAS Digital Communications Advisor Mark Harding will take you through the basics of social media…
Following the success of the Upper Hunter Festival Forum in 2018, Arts Upper Hunter is holding the Upper Hunter Library Forum on Wednesday June 19 at Muswellbrook Library from 10am to 1pm. Keynote speaker is Cameron Morley, Manager of Public Library Services at the State Library of NSW. Cameron, Upper Hunter Shire Library Coordinator Elizabeth…
Commemorating 200 years since the birth of Queen Victoria, a NSW State Archives exhibition The Queen’s Album will launch today (28 May) at Government House in Sydney, piecing together 64 photographs that featured in a missing 1882 album gifted to the 63-year-old monarch on behalf of the NSW Colony. Using original glass plate negatives from…
Applications close: Tuesday 4 June 2019 A rare and exciting job opportunity has opened to join Regional Arts NSW as Manager, Marketing & Communications. The role is responsible for managing the organisation’s communication platforms (including social media), liaising with national, metro and regional media as well as developing communication and marketing strategies for our projects…
More than 4,500 people have been dazzled by spectacular laser shows, fire dancing, African drumming and LED hula hoops as Firelight shone through a crisp Saturday night in Singleton last night. The feature event as part of the Glencore Singleton Festival also included a special viewing of the Yancoal Singleton Art Prize in the Singleton…
World acclaimed guitar Maestro Bruce Mathiske returns to Dungog where his six strings are set to sizzle with fiery fretwork and tender harmonics from far flung corners of his guitar. Back by popular demand to the James Theatre in Dungog which is the oldest purpose-built theatre still operating in Australia, he brings his unique style,…
Singleton is getting ready to fire up for the community’s annual homage to cooler temperatures with a laser show and LED hoop show headlining this year’s Firelight. In its second year, the free family event will be held on Saturday 11 May 2019 as part of the Glencore Singleton Festival, celebrating all things art and…
Arts on Tour will present two SALONS in 2019. The first will be in Sydney on Wednesday 19 June and second will be in Tamworth on 31 October as part of Artstate. SALON is a great platform for Pecha Kucha style pitches from NSW based artists and producers and to facilitate connections with NAPACA members…
Are you new to writing and wondering how to get your words down on paper? Or are you already writing and looking to go to the next level? Want to make your fiction soar? Writing Gymnastics will look at ways to make your stories leap into life. Facilitator Megan Buxton taught secondary English for thirty…
You are invited to a truly authentic and fun filled bush dance in the beautiful Upper Hunter Valley. Traditional music will be performed acoustically by Hunter musicians ‘Waltzing Jack’ & Friends in the historic timber-lined Baerami Hall, in a picturesque valley at 1361 Bylong Valley Way, Baerami, near Sandy Hollow & Denman. Arrive from 4pm…
From Shakespeare and African drumming to relaxation and massage, Singleton Youth Venue’s first ever Youth Fest – Teens in 19 aims to help young people uncover their hidden talents and reach their potential. The three-day event will be held on Friday 26 April, Saturday 27 April and Sunday 28 April, with a packed program including…
Calling all emerging and established makers, designers, artists, and food and drink purveyors! Applications are open now for The Olive Autumn Seasonal Market at Maitland Regional Art Gallery. With over a decade of producing successful creative markets The Olive Tree Market was recently nominated by Better Homes and Gardens as one of the “Eight best…
Arts Access Victoria will be opening applications for the Stella Young Award on the 30th April. This award is open to any young artist with disability, 16-30 years, working in comedy, performing arts and/or screen, who have used their art to challenge the social narrative about disability. The award is $3000. For all the details…
Local artist and Teachers Aide, Leanne Ward, has been working with the students at the Muswellbrook High School as part of the school’s visual art program. Leanne said, “The large seascape mural was created from a workshop I conducted with Yr 7 students from a 2018 class. I asked them to draw anything related to…
Since 2007, in the small town of Doisaket – – just 30 minutes outside of Chiang Mai city, ComPeung has hosted over 100 artists in all disciplines from every corner of the world. They offer warm, engaging hospitality with fresh home-cooked meals daily and provides all the basic necessities for living in a semi-rural, tropical…
The Singleton Mechanics Institute will be a headline in Singleton’s Australian Heritage Festival program for this year as the subject of an exhibition of photographs and artefacts as well as a topic at a special High Tea & History event. Singleton Public Library has joined forces with Family History Society Singleton Inc to celebrate the…
The $10,000 acquisitive Newcastle Foundation Art Prize is open to all artists living in the Hunter Valley. This year’s theme and dimensions of works for the prize have been announced. This year’s theme is Cornucopia: “When first settled by Europeans, Newcastle and the Hunter was recognised for its abundance of flora and fauna. Images of…
The Murrurundi and District Historical Society’s is proud to present this exhibition of models from regional taxidermists Kevin and Leanne Bowman, and Steve Miller. The exhibition features birds, animals and fish. Venue: God’s Waiting Room (next door to the Murrurundi Museum) Mayne St, Murrurundi. Open: Weekends 10am to 1pm, Other times by appointment. Exhibition closes:…
Scone Arts & Crafts will be holding their 23rd Annual Members Exhibition alongside the Annual Scone Horse Festival in May 2019. This will be a ‘Members’ Exhibition’ (joining fee $25.00 annually). open to anyone who is a current financial member. Entry is free and if your work is sold we take 20% of the sale…
She has been likened to Evelyn Waugh and Agatha Christie, and now award –winning author Sulari Gentill is heading to Singleton Public Library in March for a free author talk, and everyone is welcome. Sulari Gentill is the mastermind behind the critically-acclaimed Rowland Sinclair mysteries, with a list of impressive awards to her name including…
Create NSW has announced that a new round of Arts and Cultural Projects 2018/19 funding that opened on Monday 25 February, following the distribution of $1.7m for 39 projects including $500,000 for 13 across Western Sydney through earlier rounds. Open to individual artists, arts and cultural workers, partnerships and organisations, the Arts and Cultural Projects…
Arts Upper Hunter is hosting an exhibition by Jess Dugan, a local photographer, from the 11 March to the 18 April in our office foyer at 142 Bridge St, Muswellbrook. ‘Happiness is different for everyone. One thing that might make one person happy, another doesn’t give thought to. During some recent training I did…
Arts Upper Hunter has just announced the dates for the tour of Choo Choo Troupe’s hilarious family show “You’ll Never Guess Where I Hid the Cheese”. Dungog – 23 September Singleton – 24 September Muswellbrook – 25 September Merriwa – 26 September Scone – 27 September Murrurundi – 28 September This is a very funny…
Saturday 27th April 2019, 7.30pm Venue: St Mary-on-Allyn Church, 840 Allyn River Road, Allynbrook (near Gresford) Tickets: $150 including light supper and drinks afterwards. Bookings and information: Email Lisa johnandlisa@activ8.net.au John Lill is a famous British pianist. This will be his only Australian performance. John Lill is the kind of pianist you thought they…
Entries close: 15 March 2019 If you had a work published or released during 2018 you may be eligible to enter this year’s Awards. Prize money is awarded in each category with up to $80,000 for winners and $5,000 for shortlisted books. Awards are presented across six categories: •children’s literature •young adult literature •fiction •poetry…
Saturday 16th March at 7pm Venue: Sacred Spaces at the Sisters of Mercy Convent, 30 Queen Street, Singleton The Brandenburg’s principal baroque flautist Melissa Farrow has carefully curated a program to represent the distinctive styles of English and French music from the early and mid-eighteenth centuries. The concert will include works by Handel, Lully, Playford,…
Presented by the Rotary Club of Singleton on Hunter, the Yancoal 2019 Singleton Art Prize is a painting and drawing show. Wide range of categories, total prize pool is $16,825. Entries close Friday 12 April 2019. For all the details including guidelines and entry form please visit http://singletononhunterrotary.org.au/singleton-art-prize Image: Taken at 2010 Singleton Art Prize,…
To support farmers and communities during the big dry, Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network invites you to submit a grant application of up to $50,000 for activities that promote wellbeing in our community. Activities can include: Community events or workshops Events to improve physical and mental health, like exercise, sport, yoga…
Local award-winning and bestselling author, Tea Cooper is heading to Singleton Library in February for an intimate author talk and everyone is invited. Thursday 21 February 5.30pm to 7pm. Singleton Library Free – bookings essential. Cooper’s latest release, The Woman in the Green Dress, is set in the Hawkesbury during 1853 and 1919, and in…
Sacred Spaces at the Sisters of Mercy Convent, Singleton, Hunter Valley Saturday 9 February 2019 at 8pm. A classical instrumental ensemble from the famous German musical city of Cologne returns to the stunning Sisters’ Chapel on their 2019 Australian tour. Violin, oboe and cello soloists, accompanied by other musicians in the ensemble. You may BYO…
The State Library NSW has just announced a new short film prize worth $20,000 – Shortstacks. The State Library of NSW announced the launch of its inaugural short film prize Shortstacks, with a total of $20,000 on offer across two categories. Shortstacks is now open to established, emerging and first-time filmmakers of all ages, but…
Small Forest will be hosting an exhibition Tomoko Oka who is a Japanese calligraphy artist based around Sydney and the Central Coast. Demonstration – Saturday 2 February, 1pm. Venue: Small Forest. Denman Exhibition open: 2nd February 2019 to 31st March 2019, weekends 10am to 4pm Website: http://smallforest.com.au/ Tomoko practiced calligraphy from the age of ten.…
Singleton has celebrated Australia Day with an official ceremony including the Australia Day address by decorated army colonel Iain Cruickshank, a citizenship ceremony to welcome 36 new Australians and the announcement of Singleton’s leading citizens. 2017 Wambo Coal Singleton Hall of fame inductee Peggy Moore was named 2019 Citizen of the Year, for her tireless…
Agora Gallery is pleased to invite artists from across the globe to enter the 34th Annual Chelsea International Fine Art Competition. Selected artists will receive prizes and opportunities that will grant invaluable exposure, boost recognition, and promote career growth. “The Chelsea International Fine Art Competition has been an annual tradition within New York City’s vibrant…
Minister for the Arts Don Harwin is calling on NSW artists to be the first participants of a new partnership between Create NSW and internationally-acclaimed Sydney production company Animal Logic. Three experienced NSW artists are sought across a wide spectrum of art forms, for the Animal Logic Artist in Residence pilot initiative, with each artist…
An outdoor concert by Anthony Albrecht at Callicoma Hill Eco-cabins, Hunter Valley Sat 12 January 2019 from 6pm As the sun sets on the forest, be immersed in a nature-led, outdoor, acoustic performance of Bach and other baroque favourites by UK-based cellist Anthony Albrecht. The program of this very different outdoor classical concert in a…
The board and staff of Arts Upper Hunter wish you a happy, safe and creative festive season. We thank you for your support and look forward to seeing you in the new year. Our office will be closed Friday 21 December 2018 to Sunday 13 January 2019.
Maitland City Council is inviting artists to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for the creation of contemporary installations in Maitland laneways. There are two opportunity’s available, with each installation carrying a separate historical theme, ‘Poverty’ and ‘Prosperity’. Artists are welcome to submit an expression of interest for one or both of the opportunities. …
Michael Johnsen MP, Member for Upper Hunter today announced $2,787,000 for Singleton to construct a new Arts & Cultural Centre through round two of the NSW Government’s $100 million Regional Cultural Fund. Mr Johnsen said the Arts & Cultural Centre in Singleton will benefit Singleton Council’s cultural efforts and many local community groups. “I heartily…
The Desert Festival is an annual platform that showcases local and interstate artists, celebrating artistic and cultural vibrancy throughout the Spring season in Alice Springs/Mparntwe. Expressions of Interest for the 2019 festival are open now and Red Hot Arts Central Australia are inviting local and interstate artists of all artistic disciplines to apply. Desert Festival…
Murrurundi is having it’s Twilight Christmas Shopping event Saturday 15th December. Local galleries, artists studios, shops and cafes will be open. In addition the Murra Country Markets will be on in the park. Date: Saturday 15 December. Venue: Venues throughout Murrurundi More details: Contact David Darcy at https://www.facebook.com/daviddarcyphoto/ Image: courtesy of David Darcy.
Arts Upper Hunter hosted two contemporary dance workshops run by Catapult Dance’s Toni Ambrogetti. Toni worked with performers from Showstoppers Performing Arts Company for People with Abilities at Scone and participants from integratedLiving Australia at Muswellbrook. Many thanks to Jill Hamling from Showstoppers Performing Arts Company for People with Abilities, and Chic Taylor from integratedLiving…
Arts and culture in regional NSW will continue to shine with an outstanding line-up of new creative projects fast-approaching thanks to over $259,000 in funding from the NSW Government, announced today by Minister for the Arts, Don Harwin. Through this funding, creative organisations from across regional and rural NSW will play host to range of…
Showcasing Talented People Within Our Communities The Singleton Showground will be a buzz this Saturday, 1st of December. Market Stallholders from our local communities will be in attendance showing their unique arts and crafts. So if your looking for a unique present be sure to come along and amble through the Stallholders have a bbq…
Saturday 8th December. 10am to 4pm. Scone Arts & Crafts Centre. 63 Kingdon St, Scone. Free entry. Everyone Welcome. Come and see what we do: Painting, drawing, ceramics, sculpture, photography, bridge, yoga, spinning and weaving, dance for little ones and bigger one too. Almost anything artistic that might interest you! Well priced objects to buy,…
The decorations are going up as Singleton prepares for the Hunter’s biggest community Christmas party with Christmas on John Street to have jingle bells ringing on Friday 7 December 2019. A big night of entertainment, music, food and fireworks is on everyone’s list, and Santa will be checking it twice with free photos at a…
In partnership with the Australia Council for the Arts, Create NSW is calling for expressions of interest from inspiring NSW-based visual arts leaders to attend the Venice Biennale 2019 as mentors for emerging Australian visual artists. Two positions are available for proven leaders to travel to Venice to support up to eight participants from the…
Arts Upper Hunter hosted a one day drama workshop at St James’ Primary School Muswellbrook run by Tantrum Youth Arts’ Chris Dunstan (front right). Chris worked with year 5 & 6 students. At the end of the day the plays were performed for the whole school. Many thanks to Acting Principal Ashley Borg.
A new exhibition by emerging artist Lana Grant at Small Forest by Atsuko will feature a collection of works using graphite, soft pastel, acrylic, gold leaf and photography mediums. ‘Aurum’, meaning ‘gold’ in latin, focusses on the natural details and beauty seen throughout the Upper Hunter and is a celebration of flora and fauna that…
The artist call-out for the 2019 Emerging Writers’ Festival is now open! Whether you have a specific idea or would just like to be involved, submit before 2 Dec for your chance to be a part of the festival. Diversity, inclusivity and accessibility are the core values that underpin EWF’s artistic program, offering a unique…
On Saturday 3rd November, Minister for the Arts, the Hon. Don Harwin MLC announced Tamworth will be the next host city for Artstate, Regional Arts NSW’s celebration of arts across the state. The event will take place from Thursday, October 31st to Sunday, November 3rd 2019. Minister Harwin said, “Tamworth is an authentic Australian heartland…
The Toolkit is tailored to creative practitioners and small to medium organisations. It takes a “how to” approach, and details the steps needed to grow and develop income streams from sources such as philanthropy, sponsorship, crowdfunding and new products. Individual guides and fact sheets contain links to related information throughout the Toolkit, including successful case…
The National Arts and Disability Strategy is being renewed! The Department of Communications and the Arts wants to hear about your experiences in the sector, and how you think the participation of people with disability in the arts, screen and culture sector can be increased. How can I have my say on the National Arts…
Celebrating International day for People with A Disability. 1 December marks the International day for People with A Disability and this year Singleton celebrates with a twang at the annual Bush Dance & Dinner. The night is an opportunity for the community to come together to enjoy a night of fun and music and enjoy…
Saturday 24 November 2018 Escape the noise of the supercars in Newcastle, and come up to the forested mountainside for peace & quiet & fresh air – and see some historic ‘movies under the stars’. Movies Under the Stars is held annually at the Callicoma Hill Eco-cabins, 50km north of Singleton at Mt Royal, on…
9th to 11th of November 2018 Scone From bush poetry to steamy sex scenes, crime writing and conversations with living legends, this year’s Scone Literary Festival has it all. With the theme of “ The Magic and Power of Literature, the festival will take place over the weekend of November 10 and 11 and will…
Now open for entries. Calling for short stories up to 2000 words. Over $7000 in prizes. The top 30-35 works will be published in the 2019 anthology. The judges are Annabel Smith and Tim Richards. Entries close: 4th February, 2019 For all the details please visit https://hunterwriterscentre.org/newcastle-short-story-award-2019/
1st to 4th November 2018 Bathurst (various venues) TICKETS: On sale now at www.artstate.com.au Artstate is a four-year program presented by Regional Arts NSW which aims to shine a light on excellence in regional arts practice and to explore the exciting possibilities for arts and cultural development across the state. The event will include a…
In collaboration with Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre, Arts Upper Hunter hosted the fourth in this series of popular professional development events on Wednesday 14 November at the art centre. Fourteen artists each spent seven minutes one on one with each of five gallery professionals: Sandra McMahon (Director Weswal Gallery, Tamworth), Ahn Wells (Director Gallery 139,…
Quantum Words festival for writing about science is just around the corner! Saturday 3 November 2018 at Writing NSW, Callan Park. Covering topics from astronomy to consciousness, writing mental illness to the apocalypse, Writing NSW one-day festival explores the ways we come to understand ourselves, our world, and the expansive universe we live in. With…
A warm welcome to Arts Upper Hunter’s new board member Peter Carlin. Peter was co-opted as part of an ongoing process of moving to a skill based board model. After working as a contract designer and design manager, Peter and his partner Jane opened Haydon Hall, an art, design and cuisine business in Murrurundi. Peter…
Get ready to Dance in Dungog’s high street You’ll be able to dance the night away in Dowling Street this Long Weekend’s Sunday Night Street Party when the iconic Dog Trumpet takes over the main street during the Dungog Festival. The weekend will bring non-stop music, six artisans outlets showing their wares and no less…
Saturday 13 October 2018, 6pm, at the Barn, Mayne St, Murrurundi. The ENREC Studio Band feature of Tim Rickards new CD of diverse story songs, with the legendary Garry & Kirk Steel (Piano plus Accordion – from John Williamson to Kings Cross bars LOL), Christian Marsh (deluxe Harmonica) and James Gillard (from Mental as Anything…
Many thanks to all who attended our Upper Hunter Festival Forum, especially Professor John Connell and panel members: Jan Fallding, Deidre Peebles and Nancy Knudsen.
Entries for the 2019 Ramsay Art Prize open on 14 September inviting submissions from Australian artists under 40 working in any medium. Finalists are selected by an international judging panel with the selected works included in an exhibition at the Art Gallery of South Australia. Through the generosity of the James & Diana Ramsay Foundation,…
Be sure to save the date for Scone Short Film Festival on 22nd and 23rd September. Scone Films presents its annual short film festival, featuring a fantastic selection of world class Australian short films. Now in its tenth year, the festival only screens Australian short films. There is something for everyone, with a range of…
The inaugural Sculpture on the Farm exhibition at Fosterton outside Dungog will be held over the coming October long weekend to coincide with the Dungog Festival. There will be approximately 100 sculptures on display from both local sculptors and those from further afield and including prominent names, such as the late Inge King and Newcastle…
Create NSW has announced funding of nearly $250,000 to boost NSW screen practitioner skillsets and bring a range of screen experiences to audiences across the State. “In addition to delivering the most innovative, diverse and compelling events for audiences, we also want to ensure that our incredible screen workforce continues to upskill through as many…
The Upper Hunter Festival Forum was held on Tuesday 18th September at Singleton. Many thanks to everyone who attended Arts Upper Hunter’s Festival Forum and especially speakers Professor John Connell, Jan Fallding, Nancy Knudsen and Deidre Peebles. Festivals and major events are great for community and economic development but behind the scenes it’s not…
Arts Upper Hunter hosted a one day drama workshop on Monday 6 August at Murrurundi Public School run by Tantrum Youth Arts James Chapman. James worked with Year 5 & 6 students. Many thanks to Year 5 & 6 teacher Meghan Foley.
When was the last time you channelled your creative genius on a piece of footpath? Maybe, like so many of us, it was over a decade (or two!) ago when you were just a kid. This year Dungog Festival is to be richer than ever with a chalk art competition to take place in the…
Saturday 1 September. Murrrurundi. Well known Hunter Valley artist Rebecca Rath will be running a workshop on Saturday 1 September for visual artists interested in developing their use of social media. Using social media tools and platforms, visual artists have new ways to connect with audiences and buyers far and wide. And because these websites…
Get $100 off full-price registration until THIS FRIDAY 17 September 2018. On Friday 25 July, at the Australian Museum, Regional Arts NSW announced the program for Artstate Bathurst, a four-day event that will bring an expected 200 arts delegates to the city from 1st to 4th November 2018. Artstate Bathurst will feature a two-day conference…
Running an arts festival in regional NSW? Suffering volunteer burnout? A new stream as part of the Regional Arts Fund can help build your event with a paid coordinator. Regional Arts NSW know how hard volunteers work in regional communities, and that sometimes the juggle between work, life and festival management can be overwhelming. As…
Saturday 29 September 2018. 9.15am to 1.15pm. Dungog Start writing that script you have burning up inside you, get a toolbox full of great tips and hints, and develop a scene in this script-writing adventure. Bring your own idea or not, either is fine, and it can be TV, feature or short. There’s some pre-work…
Saturday 8 & Sunday 9 September 2018 Clarence Town Dungog-Clarence Town CWA presents its popular Quiltarama on Saturday 08 September 2018, 10 am – 4 pm and Sunday 09 September 2018, 10 am – 3 pm at the Clarence Town School of Arts Hall, Grey Street, Clarence Town and the Clarence Town Senior Citizens Day…
Everyone has a secret space. Whether it’s your room, the quiet spot in the park or that spot on the street where something important happened. Perhaps your secret space isn’t a place at all? Hunter Writers Centre’s Youth Writing Prize calls for people aged 16-35 living in the Hunter to write a piece on the…
Applications for the 2019 round of the Country Arts Support Program (CASP) are now open. CASP provides grants to arts and cultural groups, not for profit organisations and local councils in regional NSW for short term, locally initiated projects. Schools can’t apply but school Parents and Citizens’ Associations can. The grants of up to $3,000…
The Blue Heeler Film Festival is back – and 2018 is shaping up to be a watershed year for local short film producers with a new patron, substantial cash prizes to be won and the Gold Bluey Award up for grabs. Inspired by star of the big and small screen, Sigrid Thornton, who has graciously…
There has been a recent renewal of energy and interest in revitalising the historic Bandon Grove School of Arts Hall about 10 kilometres north of Dungog. The School of Arts Committee aim to reconnect residents of the Bandon Grove area by making the hall relevant and refurbishing the building. This has motivated a couple of…
On Monday 28 May at the Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre Regional Arts NSW launched Artstate Bathurst, the second iteration of a four-year program building upon conversations, partnerships and opportunities for regional artists and arts organisations. Partnering with Arts OutWest, this four-day event in Bathurst will welcome an anticipated 200 arts industry delegates and include a…
Sculpture on the Farm will be held at “Fosterton” opening on Friday 28 September at 5pm, then Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 September and Monday 1 October, 2018. This inaugural exhibition and sale of sculptures will be held in conjunction with the renowned Dungog Festival, which is a celebration of the arts, local food and rural life and attracts people from all over the state.
Kaput, the multi-award winning family show has melted hearts of all ages around the world with its glorious brand of slapstick, acrobatics and total silliness. Be swept up in the mayhem that is the larger-than-life ‘elegant buffoon’ Tom Flanagan, as one man’s life is flipped upside down by the lonely dust covered world that surrounds…
Have you always wanted to write or been writing alone at home for years? Then join our Creative Writing course lead by Karen Crofts director of Hunter Writers Centre to help you whether you’re anew or seasoned writer. This workshop is presented by the Singleton Public Library in partnership with Arts Upper Hunter and the…
WORKSHOP IS FULLY BOOKED Visitors Welcome Get weaving in your own creative way with Saori free style weaving! This weekend workshop is for anyone and no experience at all is an advantage in weaving this creative cloth. You’ll be weaving in a few minutes and take home a unique piece of cloth. All looms are…
Making Art Work: An Economic Study of Professional Artists in Australia by David Throsby and Katya Petetskaya is the sixth in a series carried out independently over thirty years by Professor Throsby at Macquarie University, with funding from the Australia Council. The series tracks trends in the lives and working conditions of Australian artists over…
The Creative Achievement Awards celebrate and reward the outstanding achievements of individuals, teams and organisations that have helped raise the global profile of the creative industries in NSW. Nominations close 16 March 2018 This year there are three categories: 1) The prestigious NSW Creative Laureate. This award recognises an individual, team or organisation making a…
The NSW government has announced $17,458 in arts project funding to the Arts Upper Hunter’s region. The funding was part of the NSW Government’s CASP which is administered by Regional Arts NSW and the 14 NSW regional arts development organisations of which Arts Upper Hunter is one. Nearly $250,000 was distributed for 76 projects across…
Opening the latest exhibition by Murrurundi & District Historical Society, Brad Franks, Manager of Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre said the small community was fast developing into an art clique in the Upper Hunter. Around 40 people turned out for the opening and witnessed not only a complete change in art directions but also a revamped exhibition…