Lismore City Council unveils innovative ArtVenture Trail in the CBD
Published on 15 November 2023
Lismore Regional Council, in a creative collaboration with the Lismore Regional Gallery and CBD property owners, has transformed the city’s CBD with an interactive ArtVenture Trail.
The trail features reproduced artworks from the Lismore Regional Gallery, turning empty shopfronts into surprising exhibition spaces and infusing the city with renewed vitality and artistic flair.
Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said the art installations were a celebration of the Lismore Regional Gallery’s surviving collection of local works and each piece told a rich story about the history of art in Lismore.
“The works featured on the trail are a showcase of art that has been gifted or purchased by the gallery over several decades telling the story of the artists who have contributed to our social fabric.
“As our CBD continues to get back on its feet, with more eateries and retail options opening, local businesses will now be complemented by an initiative that gives locals and visitors the opportunity to explore national and locally significant artists,” he said.
“We invite visitors to immerse themselves in the trail experience and to support our local businesses and Back Lismore."
The trail currently includes thirteen artworks spanning various CBD locations, where people can uncover hidden artistic gems within the urban landscape.
The trail will continue to evolve with new art pieces being added and others coming down as shops are filled.
Lismore Regional Gallery Curator Kezia Geddes said she is thrilled to be able to take the gallery to the people and have prominent artwork displayed again in Lismore.
“Many of the artworks are by nationally and locally significant artists that have been part of the Lismore Regional Gallery’s permanent collection since 1948,” she said.
“It is the first time these pieces have been on public exhibition since the 2022 natural disaster, so we are excited to share them with visitors to enjoy.”
Destination Coordinator at Lismore City Council Karen Hirst said the art trail gives visitors the sense of character and unique vibe of our CBD.
“ArtVenture is not just an art trail, it's an immersive experience that guides people through the heart of Lismore,” she said.
“It's a journey that reveals the city’s unique character, showcasing our rich artistic heritage and vibrant community life, including our delightful shops and eateries. This project beautifies our streets and celebrates our city’s resilience and creative spirit.”
Visitors can embark on this artistic journey by picking up a map of the ArtVenture Trail at the Lismore Regional Gallery, the pop-up space at 46 Magellan Street, Lismore, the Council Chambers at 43 Oliver Avenue, Goonellabah, or by downloading it from www.visitlismore.com.au.
This initiative is a collaborative effort between Lismore City Council, Lismore Regional Gallery, and local property owners, aiming to revitalise the cityscape through art and community engagement.
Property owners with vacant shops interested in participating in the ArtVenture Trail are encouraged to express their interest on Lismore City Council’s Your Say page at https://yoursay.lismore.nsw.gov.au.
Photo: Members of the public enjoy 'The Village' by Lucas Wright at the Gollan Hotel, 73 Keen Street.