People powered gallery celebrates 30 year anniversary
AS one of the longest running artist owned co-operatives in Queensland, if not Australia, Peace of Green Gallery Maleny celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. A significant milestone for any organisation, the ongoing success of this creative people powered hub is testimony to the talent, vision and commitment of its members and ongoing support of the community that surrounds it.
Initially established as an outlet for Hinterland artists to showcase and sell their art directly to the public, the collective first formed in 1993. Maleny community activist and former Caloundra City Councillor, Jill Jordan, officially opened the co-operative which featured works from a rich diversity of local artists. The original group of artists included Jo Shepard, Sally Anne Lancaster, Jill Morris, Marc Kalifa, Howard Jupp, Cathy Lawley, Mick and Allie Hays and Peg Lancaster. Two members from the early years, Cathy Lawley and Marc Kalifa are still actively involved today.
Well known ‘Fried Mudd’ potter, Cathy Lawley, said she initially became involved with the creative co-op soon after the birth of her daughter 30 years ago, and as a young artist – becoming involved with the collective ‘absolutely launched her career’.
She said she recalled that the group originally started off with a handful of artists who rented out a small shared place next to the Maple Street Co-operative, however, within six months interest in the collective had meant they had totally outgrown the space. At that point the antique shop across the road on Maple Street became vacant, and one of the founding members, Jo Shepard, jumped at the opportunity to secure the lease. In 1994 the group, which had grown to include 17 members, relocated to the building they are still in today.
“This is when I officially joined the gallery, and I remember being a bit worried about paying my bills. I asked Jill Morris at the time, what if my work doesn’t sell? She replied, just give it six months, well that was almost 30 years ago!,” laughed Cathy.
Cathy said over the years the collective had evolved and expanded to mirror the growth of Maleny, and she had seen many changes in the town since the early days when the gallery was predominately supported only by locals. She said one of the key successes of the gallery was the opportunity for artists to meet and engage directly with customers, offering unique insights into their process and practice while also gaining interest and feedback for their art.
Starting with just seven members, the gallery has seen nearly 100 members pass through its doors, with many remaining part of the iconic collective for several years. Currently, the gallery has approximately 25 active members and continues to carry on the artistic vision of a collaborative space where artists could share their work with the public.
More details www.peaceofgreengallery.com