THERE is a new art movement taking shape in regional galleries across the state and after opening the BankHouse Originals gallery in Mallanganee in July, Susan Richardson and her partner Bill are keen to get in on the demand for a new kind of accessible community art.
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“I'm an artist and my partner Bill is a carpenter and basically we have combined everything we love into one business,” she said.
“It was a way to give back to the community and it was a way to meet likeminded people as well, sharing.”
Situated between Lismore and Tenterfield, Susan said she has found artists and buyers are tending to explore a new kind of expression that focuses on making pieces accessible and functional.
Showcasing jewellery items and homewares with a unique twist, she said this new kind of community-driven art movement is about transforming traditionally aligned galleries into more accessible places and turning traditional art pieces into functional items.
“Art is everything,” she said.
“Art isn't just stuff you hang on the wall. A lot of our giftware is done by artists. They have work for sale in the shop and they have pieces in the gallery as well.”
“We mix it up a bit. We have a bit of traditional art, but not a lot.”
Transforming the ordinary into art is the process many featured BankHouse artists have taken, Susan said, and as the new gallery finds its feet in the regional arts scene, Susan is gearing up for a new exhibition opening on Sunday, November 30.
The coming show will feature Clunes artist Katka Adams, who has supported the fledgling gallery since its inception.
“She has been very supportive,” Susan said.
“She has supported us right from the start.”
Making a way in the art world has been a gamble for the couple, but Susan said the support from the Tenterfield community has been an excellent driver for success.
“Everyone who comes is says don't stop. We have excellent support from Tenterfield people.”
She said she is keen to use the establishing gallery to promote an artists’ network in regional New South Wales fostering community art movements.
“I'm hoping to create a bit of a network. It would be a great way for other artists to meet each other,” she said.
“It's another outlet for them as well. I'd like to just make it a bit more connected. It's just really a matter of getting it out there.”
With big ambitions for the gallery and the local art scene, Susan said the BankHouse is the culmination of a gamble and a passion for her career.
“It has been wonderful. It's been a bit of a gamble,” she
“You've got to do what you love.”
