When Serpentine Community Gallery volunteers were cleaning up after the February flood, they lamented the lost artworks of Lismore. Not just for the art that was lost from the gallery’s walls – but for all the artworks lost in local houses and businesses.

That’s when the idea to put on a free art exhibition was borne - to gift ‘free’ art to Lismore’s empty walls and damaged homes.

Now, in a show of good will from Lismore’s art community, an exhibition of free art will be held at Two Mates Brewery on October 8, and the community is invited to get some free artworks – or swap over ones they already have.

Exhibition coordinator Cassie Can is now calling local artists to donate some artworks to go into the exhibition. 

Art is not a luxury

“As we rebuild in Lismore, art can be seen as a bit of a luxury, but it’s important to bring beauty back to our homes and businesses too,” Cassie said.

“So, we want to make art free to everybody in Lismore – because as a town, we all lost something.

“So if you have any artworks you don’t want anymore, you can donate them to this free art exhibition - and give them new life on someone’s walls.

“Kids can donate art too – and people can also swap any works they already have for new ones.

“You can just show up on the day with art, or donate artworks prior to the event. Then, people can take home the art they like on the day.

Uplift spirits

“It will be a beautiful gesture of generosity and a part of the vision to uplift the spirits of the people in Lismore.”

Cassie said some of the Lismore Art Club members were keen to donate artworks.

“They are passionate about holding this event in a region where we have so many artists and art appreciators,” she said.

Cassie said the local brewery was donating the exhibition space out of goodwill to help rebuild the local community.

Local face painter Rachel Creamer will be at the free day, painting faces.

Family friendly day

“We can all mingle and it will be a family friendly event with activities too,” Cassie said “

“There’s a lovely grassy space out the back with a kids playground and gazebo.

“Rachel, a local face painter will be there and we’ll have a needle felting workshop run by Nimbin Textiles – but there are limited spaces in this workshop and you need to prebook for it.

“Kyogle gelato cart and Sam’s burgers will be there providing food – and we are also looking for donations of cake for morning tea.”

There will also be live music performances from 11am to 4pm, followed by more music until 8pm.

On the day, people can also donate money toward helping Serpentine Gallery rebuild the local community gallery space.

Serpentine Gallery president, Susan, said the rebuild of the gallery is slowly happening - and it is expected to be open for 'Ink and Mud' - an exhibition by local printmakers in December.

Cassie said it’s hoped this networking event can be the beginning of local artists connecting again after the flood.

“We can put this community back together and start working and inspiring each other again,” Cassie said.

If you would like to get involved, donate art or cakes, contact Susan on 0409 056 976.

The exhibition will be held from 11am to 4pm on Saturday, October 8 at Two Mates Brewery at 8 Engine Street, South Lismore.