Art with a bang!

Published 9:00am 23 June 2023

Words by Jodie Powell

Artists from across the Moreton Bay Region are all set for this year’s Fabulous Art Beachmere (FAB) exhibition.

Organised by the Beachmere Area Network Group (BANG), the exhibition has grown rapidly since its inception in 2016, attracting entries from all over the region.

BANG president Karen Harris says FAB is a great opportunity for new and emerging - as well as established - artists to show and sell their work.

“We organise the exhibition to encourage new artists to exhibit their work and to make connections and network with other artists,” Karen explains.

“Activities and events throughout the exhibition encourage visitors and artists to visit over the weekend, making connections and building interest.

“Each year we grow the exhibition by including artist education and showcasing artists at demonstrations.”

Humbling experience

Photographer Anthaea Dance was thrilled to win gongs at last year’s exhibition.

“The awards night was quite humbling - my name came out of the MC’s mouth three times – it was lovely to have my work endorsed.”

Anthaea entered six large photographic canvases of scenes around Beachmere, winning the Photography and Local Subject categories and taking home a highly commended certificate for a third piece.

“I grew up with a camera in my hand – I used to think about Tiger Woods and how he grew up with a golf club in his hand,” she laughs.

“I bought a Kodak Instamatic for $22 that I got from hiring out my bike for $2 a day.

“I love to photograph anything with eyes and a heartbeat, but I love infrastructure work as well.”

Anthaea turned professional more than 20 years ago after capturing many family portraits, weddings and babies on film.