The Gazette Art Gallery Pop Up Exhibition hosted by the Cardinia Art Society was officially opened on Saturday 22 April.
Paul Thomas was asked to open the event as a fourth-generation family member to own and run the local paper.
Paul reflected on his childhood memories of his grandfather working the printing machines and how in the days before digital photography only a limited number of photographs were able to be taken when covering a story.
He made the connection with an art exhibition and the art required to put together an edition of the Gazette and acknowledged the impressive restoration of the building by current owner Tim Mepstead, stating that it was great to see it in use after a long period of hibernation.
President Jillian Ronald thanked the 40 artists who put forward art for the exhibition and Tim Mepstead for his generous offer to use the building, explaining that the unique character of the building provides a great backdrop for the 150 artworks on exhibition.
“The Cardinia Art Society were very excited to be given this opportunity to hold a pop-up gallery. We were offered the building at the start of April and in two weeks were able to put together this wonderful collection of art and now on opening night we can celebrate,” Jillian said.
“In terms of organising an Art Show from concept to completion in a two-week timeframe, this would have to be a personal best. Art Show Pakenham’s preparation takes a year!
“The committee worked very hard to pull it all together so quickly.”
The competition to find old and interesting Gazette items is underway.
Five entries have come forward which include a paper covering the Ash Wednesday fires, a photograph of Herb Thomas, newspapers dating back to 1924, an employee’s printing compositor for their four-year apprenticeship and several examples of Gazette printed material.
“We hope that other members of the community can add to this collection. It’s fascinating to see all the different elements of the paper’s history but it is also interesting to see what things people have held onto as part of their own personal history – what was important to them,” Jillian said.
Visitors filled the building, appreciating the artist talent within Cardinia Shire and the installation reflecting the history of the Pakenham Gazette.
Everyone enjoyed the catering provided by the Martin and Cher Spratt from the Lime Box Café.
The exhibition is a buy and take opportunity, so the display is constantly changing.
Six artworks have already been sold.
Jillian recommended that people pop in whenever they are passing by to view the new art added.
The exhibition will run until 14 May and is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10am to 4pm. Entry is free, but a donation is appreciated.
