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Arts + Culture Update
April 2025
Griffith l Leeton l Murrumbidgee l Narrandera
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Catherine Sharpe-Lewis at The Leeton Tip Shop
A big congratulations to local author and artist Catherine Sharpe-Lewis, who recently took part in Work of Art, the professional development program led by Regional Arts NSW. Catherine brings a unique blend of creative practice, teaching and social science into her work, always with a strong sense of community connection and curiosity.
Catherine was on hand last weekend for the reopening of The Leeton Tip Shop, where she is beginning to develop some exciting new arts-based initiatives. With her trademark creative thinking, Catherine is exploring ways to reimagine the role of reclaimed materials—blurring the line between the practical and the poetic.
Visitors to the Tip Shop can expect more than just a few good recycled bargains. Keep an eye out for unusual finds that may spark your next creative project—or even a copy of Catherine’s recently published poetry collection, Life or Something Like It, which is also available via her website.
To learn more about Catherine’s work, visit catherinesharpe-lewis.com, or explore the Work of Art program via Regional Arts NSW.
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Creative Connection Riverina Hosts Rare Bird Workshop
Creative Connection Riverina recently delivered a standout professional development opportunity for performers, directors and drama educators across the region, partnering with the internationally acclaimed Rare Bird Ensemble for a four-hour workshop held in Leeton.
Taking place at the Leeton Uniting Church on Thursday 6 March, the workshop was led by Rare Bird’s artistic director Jeremy James and explored techniques rooted in Jacques Lecoq’s physical theatre practices, as well as influences from Complicité and Théâtre du Soleil. Participants were guided through movement training, games and improvisation, with a focus on storytelling, ensemble work and building character with confidence and clarity.
The energy in the room was electric. “RARE BIRD offer a much higher level of training than normally available outside of the cities,” said participant Cynthia Arel. “It would be fantastic to have more opportunities like this in the Western Riverina.”
Western Riverina Arts was proud to support this event, ensuring high-quality artistic training remains accessible in our region. Our thanks go to Creative Connection Riverina and Rare Bird Ensemble for making it happen.
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Penny Paniz Acquisitive Arts Exhibition opens in style
Western Riverina Arts was proud to partner with Leeton Art Society Inc for the 2025 Penny Paniz Acquisitive Arts Exhibition. This year’s event attracted a record number of entries, showcasing the depth of creativity and technical skill in our region. Artists responded to the theme Leeton Vista with thoughtful and diverse works celebrating local identity and place.
Congratulations to all exhibiting artists and award recipients. A special mention goes to this year’s Acquisitive Prize winner, Michelle Cartwright, whose work A Walk through the Wattle captured the judging panel’s attention.
The exhibition is open until 3pm Saturday 17 May at Leeton Museum and Art Gallery. The gallery will be open throughout the Easter long weekend, thanks to the generous support of Leeton Art Society volunteers. Visitors are encouraged to cast their vote in the People’s Choice Award.
On Saturday 26 April, the exhibition will also host a special Familiarise & Socialise event on the LMAG terrace, presented in collaboration with Localise You and Leeton Art Society Inc. This welcoming afternoon invites newcomers and locals alike to connect with Leeton’s vibrant arts scene and explore the exhibition in a relaxed social setting.
Click here for a full list of winners and to download the digital catalogue.
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Fiesta La Leeton: A Celebration of Culture and Community
Chelmsford Place was buzzing on Saturday 12 April as Fiesta La Leeton lit up the evening with colour, music and community pride. The multicultural street festival featured delicious international cuisine, vibrant performances, and an electric atmosphere that drew a large and enthusiastic crowd.
Presented by Leeton Multicultural Support Group Inc in conjunction with Leeton Shire Council, Fiesta continues to be a powerful expression of the region’s cultural diversity—brought to life thanks to the tireless efforts of community volunteers and generous support from sponsors including JBS, Multicultural NSW, and The Irrigator.
Western Riverina Arts was pleased to attend and share some of the energy via live streams on our Facebook page. Highlights from the night included performances by True Vibenation, Leeton’s Solomon Island dancers, Widiya Ningsih from East Java, Filipino duo Twogether, a local P-pop dance crew, Papapuka Islanders, and Pastor Emosi and the River of Life Band.
A warm congratulations to everyone involved in making this joyful event such a success.
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Gala of Couture
The Couture Collection is the life’s work of fashion designers John Claringbold and Ross Weymouth who spent most of their career in Melbourne, and lived their final years in Darlington Point. Throughout their career, they won numerous fashion awards including Gown of the Year 12 times. A collection of 230 of their gowns was acquired in 2005 by the Griffith Regional Art Gallery.
GRAG Ltd Community Committee, in partnership with the Griffith Regional Art Gallery, are hosting a gala fashion parade showcasing a selection of these exquisite gowns to raise funds for their continued conservation. Due to the fragility of the fabrics, this will be the last time these gowns will be modelled on the runway, so don’t miss the opportunity to see them, and contribute to their preservation.
Saturday 3 May from 6pm | Black Tie
Whitton Malt House
Tickets and more information available here.
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Get Involved with Narrandera Arts and Creative Network in 2025
Narrandera Arts and Creative Network (NACNet) has a big year ahead, offering a range of opportunities for creatives to connect, learn, and be part of a thriving artistic community. Now is the perfect time to get involved.
Makers Space
The Makers Space at the ArtsHub (Narrandera Railway Station) is a welcoming, open space where you can bring your creative projects and enjoy the company of fellow makers. With plenty of tables and room to work, this is an ideal place to share ideas, collaborate, and create in a relaxed environment. Sessions run weekly.
Creative Textile Group with Lindee
Join us as we explore the dynamic world of textiles in a space designed for creativity, collaboration, and innovation. Whether you are an experienced textile artist or just starting out, this group offers the chance to learn new skills, share techniques, and be inspired. Contact NACNet for more information.
Become a NACNet Member
Membership for 2025 is now open, and for just $10 per calendar year, you can be part of a vibrant creative network. By joining or renewing your membership, you are:
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Supporting the arts in your local community
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Connecting with like-minded creatives
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Developing new skills and expanding your artistic practice
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Accessing discounts on most fee-based activities
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Helping sustain a not-for-profit organisation, covering essential costs like rent, insurance, and utilities
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Enjoying unlimited tea, coffee, and often, delicious treats!
Membership is due now. Join today via the link below or contact us for bank details.
🔗 Join NACNet Membership
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La Dolce Vita Painting Experience
Join the artists of La Dolce Vita for an afternoon of painting Amalfi Lemons. Learn new skills or consolodate those you already have.
Enjoy the ambience and inspiration of the La Dolce Vita Exhibit while you paint.
352 - 354 Banna Ave, Griffith
(Formerly Hip Digs)
3:30 - 6pm
$70 per attendee
Book Today via facebook.
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La Dolce Vita: Three Artists, Three Points of View
Join local Griffith artists this April for the much-anticipated La Dolce Vita pop up art exhibition at 352–354 Banna Avenue (formerly Hip Digs). This vibrant showcase features the exceptional works of Lisa Taliano, Di Tarr, and Anne Mills.
This exhibition highlights how art can breathe new life into empty shopfronts, turning them into hubs of inspiration and community connection.
The exhibition is open until 24 April.
Immerse yourself in art, celebrate local talent, and explore the creative pulse of Griffith. Don’t miss this chance to support our flourishing arts scene and experience the transformative power of pop-up exhibitions!
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The Bald Archy Prize
Last Chance!
The Bald Archy Prize strikes a chord with the public, and a nerve with the arts establishment! For over 25 years, it has provided an opportunity for artists of all styles and standards to create portrait paintings of humour, dark satire, light comedy or caricature. It encapsulates the irreverent, larrikin Australian spirit in a way that appeals to people from all walks of life.
Location: Griffith Regional Art Gallery, 167 Banna Ave, Griffith, NSW
Exhibition dates: Saturday 29 March - Sunday 27 April 2025
Find out more: Facebook Event
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Pioneer Park Museum Action Day
An action-packed Good Friday!
Join the team at Pioneer Park Museum for a day of vintage and steam machinery, blacksmithing, and shearing at the Museum! Kids will love the jumping castles, train rides, petting zoo, and pony rides. Plus, enjoy markets, delicious food, drinks, and live entertainment—fun for the whole family!
Friday 18 April, 10am - 4pm
Book online: https://bit.ly/ActionDay25
Buses will be available every hour from Griffith Tourism Hub.
Parking & shuttle bus available at Dalton Park.
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Localise you and Leeton Art Society Inc. Presents: Familiarise and Socialise
Do you know about Leeton's vibrant arts and creative scene?
Localise You's April Familiarise & Socialise event is proudly hosted by Leeton Art Society Inc.
Thes two local organisations join forces to present a wonderful afternoon for newcomers and locals to learn about Leeton Art Society Inc. Experience the beautiful heritage Leeton Museum and Art Gallery in a unique atmosphere and discover the depth of local talent through Leeton Art Society Inc.'s annual Penny Paniz Art Acquisitive Exhibition, currently on display at Leeton Museum and Art Gallery.
Click here for registrations and more information.
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Penny Paniz Acquisative Arts Exhibition at Leeton Museum and Art Gallery
The Annual Penny Paniz Acquisative Arts Exhibition is on now! Celebrating the legacy of Leeton Artist Penny Paniz, this arts prize has something for everyone. This years Acquisative Prize theme is 'Leeton Vista' and showcases the variety of different skills, practice and views of the artists of Leeton Shire and Leeton Art Society Inc. members. With categories ranging from Portraiture to Abstract; Youth, and Digital Art to Flora and Fauna, this years record number of entries are not to be missed.
People's Choice voting is still open – make sure you cast your vote when you visit!
The exhibition will be open across the Easter long weekend, 10am–3pm, with the gallery kindly staffed by volunteers from Leeton Art Society Inc.
Leeton Museum and Art Gallery
Exhibition open until 3pm Saturday May 17th 2025
Stay tuned to Leeton Museum and Art Gallery’s socials for upcoming events and offerings.
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Localise you and Leeton Art Society Inc. Presents: Familiarise and Socialise
Do you know about Leeton's vibrant arts and creative scene?
Localise You's April Familiarise & Socialise event is proudly hosted by Leeton Art Society Inc.
Thes two local organisations join forces to present a wonderful afternoon for newcomers and locals to learn about Leeton Art Society Inc. Experience the beautiful heritage Leeton Museum and Art Gallery in a unique atmosphere and discover the depth of local talent through Leeton Art Society Inc.'s annual Penny Paniz Art Acquisitive Exhibition, currently on display at Leeton Museum and Art Gallery.
Click here for registrations and more information.
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Penny Paniz Acquisative Arts Exhibition at Leeton Museum and Art Gallery
The Annual Penny Paniz Acquisative Arts Exhibition is on now! Celebrating the legacy of Leeton Artist Penny Paniz, this arts prize has something for everyone. This years Acquisative Prize theme is 'Leeton Vista' and showcases the variety of different skills, practice and views of the artists of Leeton Shire and Leeton Art Society Inc. members. With categories ranging from Portraiture to Abstract; Youth, and Digital Art to Flora and Fauna, this years record number of entries are not to be missed.
People's Choice voting is still open – make sure you cast your vote when you visit!
The exhibition will be open across the Easter long weekend, 10am–3pm, with the gallery kindly staffed by volunteers from Leeton Art Society Inc.
Leeton Museum and Art Gallery
Exhibition open until 3pm Saturday May 17th 2025
Stay tuned to Leeton Museum and Art Gallery’s socials for upcoming events and offerings.
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Introducing the Creative Rights Roadshow!
Join us for an empowering series of Arts Law workshops designed for Aboriginal Arts Workers & First Nations creatives. Learn from esteemed legal expert Suzanne Derry and gain the knowledge you need to support your creative community.
Thursday 15th May 2025
9.30am-12.30pm
Griffith Regional Art Gallery
167 Banna Avenue Griffith NSW 2680
Register for this FREE event today!
About Suzanne Derry
Suzanne Derry is an arts, community and for-purpose lawyer and consultant with 20 years experience working for social good, creatives and community, both locally and internationally.
Suzanne has lead community legal education, law + policy work, strategic and social enterprise projects in community legal centres, private practice and now in her own business, Suzanne Derry Creative Law Consulting and Advice.
Suzanne's has had the honour of collaborating and advocating with First Nations peoples, both in Australia and at United Nations agency, World Intellectual Property Organisation, and has proudly supported Culturally and Linguistically diverse collaborations, along with projects promoting the rights of creatives with disabilities. Suzanne loves creating fabulous contracts for even more excellent people + projects. Suzanne consults on "for-purpose" projects to help them shine.
What will you learn? v Copyright & contracts
- Protecting First Nations artists' work
- Navigating legal challenges in the arts
This Project is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW. With the support also from Australian Government's Indigenous Visual Arts Industry Support program.
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PATHWAYS FOR ARTISTS AND CREATIVES
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Creative Australia – Grant Opportunities Now Open
Creative Australia currently has 10 open grant opportunities available on its Investment and Development page, supporting artists and creative professionals across a range of disciplines. Funding is available for professional development, residencies, and international touring, with grants designed to help artists expand their practice, develop new work, and connect with audiences worldwide.
Some opportunities close in a matter of weeks, while others remain open all year. Do not miss out—take a look today and find the right support for your creative journey.
For more information and to explore available opportunities, visit Creative Australia – Investment and Development.
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Expressions of Interest Now Open – Join Our Board
Regional Arts NSW is currently seeking expressions of interest for new board members.
We welcome expressions of interest from individuals with diverse perspectives, and particularly encourage applications from First Nations arts professionals, and those with experience in government advocacy, human resources, and/or legal expertise. Being based in the regions would also be welcomed.
How to submit your EOI?
- Complete the form at regionalartsnsw.com.au/join-our-board.
- If you are regionally-based you will need to submit a nomination form from your local Regional Arts Development Organisation (RADO). These can be downloaded from the link above. Visit regionalartsnsw.com.au/about-the-network to find your RADO and their contact information.
Expressions of Interest close 5 May 2025, 5pm.
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Create NSW – Grant Opportunities Now Open
Create NSW currently has a variety of grant opportunities available on its Arts and Cultural Funding Program (ACFP) page. Funding opportunities are available for professional artists, arts and cultural workers and organisations across a wide range of artforms and disciplines.
The ACFP 2024/25 Round 2 Project Funding opportunities include:
- Creative Nations – projects for First Nations artists (individuals and organisations)
- small project grants up to $40,000
- large project grants up to $100,000
- Creative Steps – project funding for the development of new work (individuals)
- small project grants up to $40,000
- large project grants up to $100,000
- Next Steps – professional and skills development (individuals only)
- Cultural Access – projects (individuals and organisations) engaging NSW Government strategic priority areas (First Nations, culturally and linguistically diverse, LGBTQIA+, disability and d/Deaf communities) and target populations (Western Sydney, regional NSW and young people).
- small project grants up to $40,000
- large project grants up to $100,000
Applications for all project funding programs are open until 30 April 2025. Eligible applications are competitively and independently assessed by Artform Boards.
Visit create.nsw.gov.au for support resources and application details.
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Aboriginal artists—connect with the Aboriginal Regional Arts Alliance
The Aboriginal Regional Arts Alliance (ARAA) is here to support Aboriginal artists and cultural workers living and working in regional NSW. Whether you are looking for mentoring, professional development, workshop opportunities or simply want to yarn with others in the network, ARAA wants to hear from you.
This is a growing network committed to strengthening culture and creativity across the regions.
Sign up and introduce yourself:
👉 regionalartsnsw.com.au/araa-our-connection
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Mastering the Art of Painting with Isis-Rae Ronan
Does your child love painting? Then book them in to join Isis-Rae Ronan from Tambourine Art Studio for a Mastering the Art of Painting Session. Each session will focus on a different artist/master of art, looking at their style of painting and their process. This session will look at the work of Keith Haring. We will be looking at Haring’s work 'Bunny on the move' for inspiration.
Isis-Rae Ronan is an artist and graphic designer. Tambourine Art Studio was created to inspire community art and facilitate workshops where everyone feels comfortable to create regardless of your experience or exposure to art.
All materials supplied.
6 - 12 YEAR OLDS
Where: Griffith Regional Art Gallery
When: Saturday 12 May - 11am - 12:30pm
Cost: $30
Find out more and register here.
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Local Council Grants – Now Open
A number of local government grants are now open across the Western Riverina, offering valuable support for artists, creatives, and community organisations. If you have a project idea that could benefit from funding, now is the time to take a look.
Griffith, Leeton and Murrumbidgee councils currently have grant rounds accepting applications, while Narrandera Shire Council offers a handy Grant Finder tool and email updates to help you stay in the loop.
We encourage you to explore the opportunities available and consider how your creative or community project could grow with local support.
Visit the following council websites for more information:
Griffith
Leeton
Murrumbidgee
Narrandera
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