Is art the greatest gift we can give ourselves?
Published on 01 December 2024
With the holiday season fast approaching, our minds turn to spending time with family and friends, while also carving out a little ‘me time’. I’ve always admired artists for the seemingly simple act of making time for their art. Nonetheless it takes courage and willpower, given the competing pressures on our time and, regardless of whether there is any intention to generate a financial return, practising any creative activity is an investment in yourself.
So, in reverse chronological order, here is a taster of the myriad creative avenues available to explore this summer…
In January, we are fortunate in this region to play host to Camp Creative. Commencing its 39th year in 2025, this homegrown arts festival offers 85 courses over 5 days. The range of activities is breathtaking, from Bollywood Dance and African Inspired Drumming – which we’re delighted to be hosting at the Memorial Hall and Studio BMH – to acting, photography, mural painting, story writing and countless musical pursuits. Every course offers the opportunity to learn new or improve existing skills in creative and artistic practices. Booking onto a course is truly a gift to oneself. I encourage you to check their website for remaining spaces.
While Camp Creative presents opportunities for self-improvement, the December programme of events at Memorial Hall should have your fingers rapidly tapping out invites to mates to enjoy this heady cocktail. Indulge in the Rivers Dance ‘86 end-of-year performance, a furious night of heavy metal, an evening of African electronica, one of Australia’s best new comedians and an enchanting evening of Tibetan music, with an early January chaser comprising a Bespoke Folk Bonanza and a book launch by the one and only Costa the Garden Gnome.
The Yuletide kicks off with a special celebration on Tuesday 3 December – International Day of People with Disability. Our event includes the 2024 Ian J. Cooper Awards for Access and Inclusion, followed by a showcase of local talent and creative endeavour, including a screening of the award-winning short film "Doctor Time" and performances by the "Phoenix All Stars" and "Mix Tub Theatre".
If any of that whets your appetite, check our website for further information.