A NEW book which captures the creative spirit of the Newcastle Community Arts Centre (NCAC) will be released this month.
Artist Andrew Finnie has been working on the book project since April.
“The idea of the book is a propaganda device to showcase the artists and show we are worth saving,” Finnie said.
The NCAC will close its doors on December 31 after 27 years at its Parry Street location.
It is to show who we are and that we are not a bunch of loser artists, we are actually making great work. Some of Australia’s best artists are in that book.
- Andrew Finnie
“We are trying to get it out to people who might be able to help us,” he said.
“It is to show who we are and that we are not a bunch of loser artists, we are actually making great work. Some of Australia’s best artists are in that book.
“Cultural hubs like NCAC are a major contributor to the quality of communities. By encouraging strong social bonding, they help build self esteem and a sense of belonging.”
The book captures the artists at work in the studios. The images were taken by Novocastrian artist Joerg Lehmann.
The book features 30 of the 40 studio artists who work at the centre including renowned identities such as Rachel Milne, The Strutt Sisters, Pablo Tapia, Meredith Woolnough, Peter Lankas, Mazie Turner and John Morris.
The foreword is written by the Newcastle Herald’s art reviewer Jill Stowell.
Currently NCAC management is trying to find a new premises to relocate the centre, but so far to no avail. It is being forced to close its doors after Newcastle City Council sold the building in which it is located.
There are 150 copies available, at $60 each and any profits from the book will go toward funding the centre’s search for new premises.
The book contains 245 pages of words and images which showcase the talent and work produced by the studio artists.
The Book Launch is 3pm Saturday, November 26 at Newcastle Art Space, within Newcastle Community Arts Centre, at 246 Parry St, Newcastle West.
