Monica has called her exhibition Inspiration in Progress as a play on the phrase ‘works in progress’ because most of the paintings in this exhibition have been underway or in Monica’s mind for much of the past two years.

“I like to feel I am challenging myself with my art and have spent the last year playing with techniques and experimenting in an endeavour to advance my painting - sometimes with happy results and at other times not so happy,” Monica said.

“Whatever the result I have found experimenting to be fun as I never know in which direction I may go.”

Oil paints are Monica’s favourite medium in which she prefers to use a limited palette, mixing the colours herself. She also enjoys pastels which she finds lend themselves beautifully to fur and feather textures.

Monica is fascinated by seeing something 3D emerge from a flat surface and loves the moment when the painting starts ‘talking’ to her.

A morning tea will be held in the Stringer Gallery in the Entertainment Centre, Nambucca from 10.30 on Thursday, April 2, to launch Monica’s exhibition.

The arts council will also celebrate the re-opening of the gallery with its brand new floor covering after several weeks of closure due to flooding. Everyone is welcome.

The gallery in Ridge St, Nambucca Heads, will formally re-open to the public on Wednesday, April 1.

Meanwhile, the arts council is on the hunt for some volunteers to bolster their ranks.

“We are seeking helpers to volunteer for duty sessions in the gallery and to assist with other aspects,” council president Marlene Griffin said.

“We would be delighted to hear from community minded people who have a little time to spare and would like to be part of our team. You do not have to be an artist to be a member of the arts council.

“Many of our members join for social reasons, because they enjoy our concerts or because they are committed to helping to promote artistic endeavours in the youth of our community.” 

* If you are interested phone 6569-5419 or email marlene.griffin46@bigpond.com.