Churchwide art exhibition is back!

by Libby Krahling

The LCANZ Churchwide Simultaneous Art Exhibition is back for 2022! Following the success of last year’s ‘Living Water’ exhibition, LCA Visual Arts is holding its second annual exhibition series on the theme, ‘Free Indeed’, in August.

The idea behind the simultaneous exhibition is to encourage congregations, schools and aged-care facilities to hold art exhibitions in their local communities as a way of sharing the gospel. The LCA Visual Arts committee (pictured) helps by producing resources and publicity for all exhibitions.

ALL AGES CAN SHARE CREATIVITY

In 2021, 15 exhibitions were held all around Australia, with artists ranging in age from four to 90-plus. This was an amazing effort, considering the challenges of COVID. Two exhibitions had to ‘shift’ online, and several others were cancelled or delayed. In South Australia, exhibitions were also registered with SALA, the South Australian Living Artists program, which publicises art exhibitions in local communities. This was a great outreach to the wider community.

Highlights from the 2021 exhibitions included excellent student work from Lutheran schools including Lakeside Lutheran College, Pakenham, in Victoria. There were some great collaborations between schools and local congregations, including Living Waters Lutheran College and Rockingham Mandurah congregation in Western Australia.

St Petri Nuriootpa in South Australia hosted an exhibition of work from more than 100 artists, ranging from students at Redeemer Lutheran Early Childhood Centre to residents of the Barossa Village Residency, and many local artists.

WONDERFUL WAY TO EXPRESS FAITH

Artists in the exhibition shared their joy of expressing their faith through their work, and for many it was a relief to create something positive in a stressful time. Complete beginners took part, as did successful emerging and professional artists, and everyone in between.

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST NOW!

So, the call is out for LCANZ artists and their communities to get involved in this year’s simultaneous exhibition! The theme is based on John 8:36, ‘If the Son sets you free, you are free indeed’ and exhibitions will be held in August. A resource pack with a devotion, Bible verses to explore, tips for getting started and other useful ideas is available. If you are interested in participating, please register your interest via the LCA Visual Arts website (http://visualarts.lca.org.au) or by emailing libby.krahling@lca.org.au

Libby Krahling is LCA Visual Arts Chair and exhibition organiser.

ARTISTS REGISTER TO SUPPORT CONGREGATIONS

LCA Visual Arts is establishing a register of visual and textile artists, designers, craftspeople and architects who have an interest in liturgical art and design and who are willing to accept commissions from congregations or other LCANZ bodies. To apply to join the register, go to http://visualarts.lca.org.au