After some 20 years of hard work by community groups, individuals, and Coffs Harbour City Council, the City attracted NSW State Government funding to assist with the cost of opening a regional art gallery in Coffs Harbour. The gallery was opened to the public in May 2001, with a program of exhibitions to suit all cultural tastes and to reflect the multicultural and diverse nature of the community.
A Regional Gallery Advisory Committee was formed, with many members having already worked for some years on this project, and Council adopted a Regional Gallery Business Plan. The strategic location of the facility, next to the new City Library, combined with professional programming has been a winner. Early attendance indicated that many gallery visitors were first timers, who are now enjoying a new cultural passion. The gallery has since been expanded, and continues to draw large crowds.
Provision of the new art gallery is a part of the City’s development under a new cultural policy, adopted December 2000. Council’s Cultural Policy was created with the input of the Arts and Cultural Development Advisory Committee, the Regional Arts Development Officer, the community, local artisans, with reference to policies adopted by other Councils. Implementation of the policy will see Coffs Harbour’s cultural history and heritage, particularly that of its indigenous people, celebrated for many years to come.
Public Art Protocols were also developed for the City, and they will influence future design initiatives and community art projects. Cultural Forums are held biannually, helping to unify the artistic and creative community, and encourage new initiatives to enrich the cultural tapestry of the City.
