COOL CHANGE FOR ARMIDALE ART GALLERY WITH $6,303 FUNDING
Armidale Art Society President Tess Cullen, left, Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall and Vice President David Davies discussing the installation of new air conditioning at the gallery.
ARTLOVERS in Armidale will be able to peruse local artists' works in cool comfort, with the NSW Government providing $6,303 to outfit the Armidale Art Gallery with a reverse cycle air conditioning unit.
Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall recently toured the impressive space with Armidale Art Society President Tess Cullen to announce the funding.
"Armidale Art Gallery is a valuable institution for local artists and art lovers, but the bright rooms can feel like a glasshouse in the middle of summer," Mr Marshall said.
"While volunteers have been making do with fans, the noisy setup is distracting during quiet times and completely ineffective during crowded gallery launches.
"This funding from the NSW Government's Community Building Partnership program will supply a reverse cycle air conditioning unit to the gallery, helping patrons and volunteers stay cool in summer and warm in winter.
Mr Marshall commended the work of volunteers and local artists in supporting the gallery.
"Between their support of the Armidale Art Prize, regular group workshop sessions, and efforts to highlight local artists, the gallery is a vital part of the city's creative industry," he said.
Ms Cullen said a comfortable space would help visitors better appreciate the artworks on display.
"You want people to be comfortable, so they can take their time – where they can sit and ponder, appreciating the art instead of running to a cold drink," Ms Cullen said.
"If you're comfortable, whiling away an hour away looking at art is not a difficult thing."