The new exhibition, which was opened by Leonie Holmes at Top of the Torrens Gallery in Birdwood during July (pictured right), shows work from artists who live “Along the Torrens Valley” and is part of the SALA (South Australian Living Artists) Festival.

Suzanne Georgiou, who lives at Cudlee Creek is showing some of her vibrant floral pictures, whilst Gumeracha resident, Susan Murphy’s spectacularly designed and executed quilts are indicative of her years of experience and expertise in her craft.

From Mount Pleasant, Peter Brunnbauer is exhibiting his exciting landscape photographs for the first time and also from Mount Pleasant, Joe Dennis demonstrates a high degree of skill with her restful pastel landscapes.

Sculptor, Malcolm Reynolds of Tungkillo is showing three bronze pieces, which he has cast himself.

Leonie pointed out that this skill is painstaking, strenuous and dangerous and a large piece like his superb ballerina can take several years to produce.

Leonie congratulated Jules Pilgrim of Birdwood for the bold political statement she made with her painting depicting the world’s dependence on oil.

Chris Leconby of Birdwood has taken up wood turning after 20 years in the teaching profession.

Her husband has now caught the bug and is turning delicate miniature pieces.

Christine Murphy of Birdwood is a very competent artist, who combines her artistic skill along with her husband Michael in a framing business from their home, where Christine also gives art lessons.

Melanie Y’Lang Paddick fits her imaginative photography in between working at the Mount Pleasant Library & Council Office, whilst growing irises at Charleston gives Colleen Modra the ideal opportunity to capture the most perfect blooms through her lens.

The youngest exhibitor is Alyse Brewis, who is studying Art at Adelaide University, after completing her education at the Birdwood High School. Her video presentation was an assignment in her course.

Rose and Greg Rees are developing a very successful cottage industry in Birdwood with their delightfully decorated wooden bowls and trays. Rose has a great flair for colour and display and the Gallery is going from strength to strength under her chairmanship. Rose curated this exhibition which will hang until the end of October.

Leonie thanked Chain of Ponds Wines, who sponsored this exhibition by donating wine for the opening.
Art is certainly alive and well “Along the Torrens Valley” … come and see for yourself!

This is your community gallery and has a great selection of gifts for all occasions – open every day, 11am to 4pm, except Tuesdays.