ABOUT US
The Woolgoolga Art Group is a vibrant artistic community committed to encouraging and promoting art and crafts.
We have two gallery spaces to showcase members’ works. Exhibitions featuring the work of individual artists or small groups are held in our Bicentennial Wing each month. The Main Gallery displays a constantly changing array of art and craft from our broader membership.
We are also fortunate to have two dedicated studio spaces – one devoted to ceramics, including wheels and a kiln. The second host a variety of activities, from sewing to art classes.
How We Began…
On 8 October 1972, ten people who had been painting with artist and tutor Marion Strong held a meeting after class at Woolgoolga Lake and formed the Woolgoolga Art Group. The group painted and exhibited on a variety of premises. WAG (as the group is affectionately known) commenced fundraising to secure a permanent home and in 1980, after raising $10,000 itself, the NSW State Government granted a further $10,000 and the Coffs Harbour City Council matched the amount ‘dollar for dollar’ and Michael Chart commenced building on the open space land on Ashton’s Flat. Members did as much work as possible.
In 1980 the gallery was officially opened by the local member, Matt Singleton. In 1985 a pottery and kiln room was added.
In 1987, with the help of Councillor Marnie Yeates, WAG applied for a bi-centennial grant and with its own additional funds and the help of TAFE students, built the Bi-Centennial wing which was officially opened in 1988 by Member for Page, Ian Robinson.
By 1993 WAG had raised enough funds to add the workroom for classes.
The Group continues to grow in membership and constantly works to improve the facilities, for our members and our community.