Inaugural Artist in Residence Selected for Pearl Beach Environmental Art Trail 2025 (PBEAT 2025)
The PBEAT 2025 Committee is proud to announce Fiona Gavino as the inaugural Artist in Residence at the Pearl Beach Arboretum, creating a site-specific work for the Pearl Beach Environmental Art Trail 2025. This exciting project is made possible through the Central Coast Council’s Creative Art Central program.
Fiona, an accomplished sculptural weaver from White Gum Creek, Western Australia, will draw inspiration from the unique natural environment of the Arboretum to create an artwork that reflects the Harmony through Nature theme for PBEAT 2025. The work will integrate natural materials used in basket weaving, with designs and techniques inspired by the surrounding landscape.
During her residency from Saturday, 15 March to Sunday, 30 March 2025, Fiona will also mentor Anna Seymour, a local emerging artist, guiding her in the process of creating site-specific works that celebrate the history, environment, and people of the area.
A series of community workshops will be held throughout the residency, allowing participants to explore sculptural weaving techniques and contribute to the art trail. The workshops will share knowledge and provide an opportunity for local residents to get involved in the creation of artworks for PBEAT 2025.
The official launch event, celebrating Harmony through Nature, will be held on Sunday, 23 March 2025, thanks to sponsorship from Creightons. This event will feature cultural performances from around the world, honouring the creative spirit of the Arboretum and the diverse inspiration behind the art installations.
The PBEAT 2025 exhibition will run for five weeks from Saturday, 29 March to Sunday, 27 April 2025. Artists are now invited to submit Expressions of Interest (EOI) for creating installations.
For more information, please visit the Arboretum website at: https://www.pearlbeacharboretum.org.au/pbeat-2025/pbeatforartists.
Proposals are being sought for ephemeral artworks in the following categories:
- 15 Adult artworks (16 years and over)
- 10 Youth artworks (16 years and under)
- 5 Local school group artworks
- 5 Community group artworks
An experienced curatorial sub-committee, including Ann Flanagan, Life Governor of Art Gallery NSW and Board member of Biennale Sydney, will review and approve all installations. A small entry fee applies, though this is waived for not-for-profit groups and schools.
Generous sponsorship from Belle Property Central Coast has enabled the following prize categories:
- $3,000 First Prize (artist or group over 16)
- $1,500 Highly Commended (artist or group over 16)
- $500 Young Artist Prize (artist or group 16 years and under)
- $250 Highly Commended (artist or group 16 years and under)
Additionally, schools are encouraged to integrate PBEAT 2025 into their art curriculum. Two winning school entries will each receive a $500 Prize (Years 4-6 and Years 7-10 categories). Community groups are also welcome to submit proposals, though no prize money is awarded in the community category. However, a $1,000 People’s Choice Prize will be awarded at the end of the exhibition.
The organising committee is actively seeking additional sponsorship to support further community events and initiatives for PBEAT 2025.
Prospective sponsors are invited to contact the PBEAT 2025 Project Manager, Fiona Morrison, at pm@pearlbeacharboretum.org.au or by phone at 0451 145 262 for more information.
For further details, visit the Pearl Beach Arboretum website at www.pearlbeacharboretum.org.au.
To be informed of the PBEAT2025 please join our mailing list pbeat@pearlbeacharboretum.org.au
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