SALA Festival exhibition opens at
Living Choice Fullarton

In South Australia every August, the biggest art festival in the world is celebrated with thousands of artists participating and more than 600 events. One of the best exhibitions is held at Living Choice Fullarton and the opening was celebrated in style by around 200 art lovers on Thursday 4^th August.

The month-long “Art Expression @123 Fisher” exhibition at Fullarton includes a collection of 86 artworks by 44 talented artists, including by members of the Fullarton Art Space. The exhibition was first conceived by resident and artist, Helen Hammond in 2016 and has been held every year, except in 2020, due to COVID. In latter years, Helen has been joined by co-curator, Joan Ogden, to arrange the exhibition.

It’s a formidable project and Joan says they could not deliver it without the help of many resident volunteers. “We value the skills of the engineers, sound and light technicians, the receiving and hanging team plus the SALA team who have been working for months behind the scenes.”

To thank Helen for her efforts over the six years, Village Manager, Simon Pavelic presented her with a gift. Group General Manager, Jason Sack, also added his thanks to Helen, Joan and all the volunteers.

The Master of Ceremonies for the opening was the inimitable Keith Conlon OAM, Living Choice’s SA Ambassador who has been the MC of the event since its inception. This year’s exhibition was officially opened by SALA Board Member, Sarah Boucart, who encouraged everyone to participate in all the diverse opportunities offered by SALA.

Well-known artist, Lyn Robins, gave an inspiring address encouraging all the artists to keep working and learning. Fittingly, Lyn was awarded first prize in the Residents’ Choice Award and resident Anne Radovic won 2^nd prize.

Adding to the ambience was the wonderful music by pianist Kerin Bailey, who was also joined by Keith Conlon playing a drum. The food - provided by onsite restaurant, Castello’s Cucina - and the drinks flowed, thanks to some very generous sponsors. These included Padthaway Grapegrowers & Vignerons, Morambro Creek, Jip Jip Rocks, Bryson Family, Oparina Wines and Coopers Brewery.

The exhibition is open daily until 27^th August from 10am to 8pm. There is also an exciting program of events running throughout the month. For full details, see below (click here).