Yield Festival officially launched at Gala Night
Yield Festival officially launched with a successful gala night celebrated by over 450 attendees for the opening of two exhibitions
A proud opening night was celebrated on Friday 25 August, with an overwhelming turnout of over 450 art enthusiasts and supporters. This evening marked the launch of two highly anticipated exhibitions, showcasing Yield Festival as a prominent event for creatives.
The impressive attendance for the gala night at Coolamon Up-to-Date Store reflects the community's continued support and passion for the arts. Guests were treated to an exclusive preview of the two distinct exhibitions, Coolamon Up2Date Art and Capture Coolamon Shire. Both showcasing the works of prominent and emerging artists and photographers. The evening also showcased live music by Geoff & Ivy, ‘A taste of Opera’ by Lyn Hogan, mimes from Freeroam Theatre and delicious food offerings.
The first exhibition, Coolamon Up2Date Art, captivated attendees with its colourful and large range of pieces across a variety of art forms. A record number of 432 art pieces were received and transformed the space into a creative hub.
The second exhibition, Capture Coolamon Shire offered a curated collection of amazing photographs from across the Shire. With 270 images on display, the exhibition is captivating across all ages. The $1000 major prize, awarded to the image that “Best Depicts the Coolamon Shire” was awarded to Alesha Bennett for ‘Home of the Kelpie’.
The gala night also unveiled a newly created sculpture commissioned by Coolamon Shire Council. The sculpture titled ‘For Keeps’ made by well-known artist Andrew Whitehead showcases kids playing marbles. The sculpture is currently on display within the Up2Date Art Exhibition before being relocated to its permanent location in Coolamon’s main street.
Mayor David McCann OAM said “We are thrilled to add this new sculpture to Coolamon’s Shire collection of art pieces throughout the Shire. Our aim to continue to grow this collection to create our own mini art trail within the shire”. We’ve been working with Andrew Whitehead on this piece for a while and were eagerly waiting to reveal this on Friday night to event attendees”.
The successful gala night was made possible through the collaborative efforts of both exhibition committees, passionate artists, and generous sponsors whose support was instrumental in making this event a success.
Throughout the duration of the exhibitions there is a ‘People’s Choice’ award where members of the community and visitors can vote for their favourite image.
Yield Festival is a collection of events, workshops, performances and experiences that highlight the makers, thinkers and creators in our community. This year’s Yield Festival is back with a great line up of events. The festival delivers an exciting variety of events that will surprise and delight our community and visitors. Spend your spring in Coolamon Shire.
Laura Munro, Council’s Tourism and Business Development Officer said "We are overwhelmed by the incredible response and support from the community and surrounding areas. We are excited to offer a space where creatives can display pieces and be celebrated, and we are thrilled to continue showcasing talent across the Yield Festival month."
The Coolamon Up-to-Date Store will continue to exhibit these two exhibitions, providing a unique opportunity for art and photography enthusiasts to explore and enjoy. Coolamon Up2Date Art Exhibition will be open until Sunday 10 September and Capture Coolamon Shire Photography Exhibition will be open until Monday 2 October. Both open daily from 10am – 4pm.
Coolamon Up-to-Date Art is located on the corner of Cowabbie and Loughnan Streets, Coolamon. For more information and the full program, please visit www.visitcoolamonshire.com.au/yield.
Proudly funded by NSW Government. Reconnecting Regional NSW - Community Event Grants
