SANDRA MCMAHON, DIRECTOR OF TAMWORTH’S WESWAL GALLERY, SHOWS US AROUND HER SPACE.
How long has the gallery been running?
The gallery was establish in the early 1980s by Joan Frances West and Geoff Walker – hence the name Weswal. It has always been run as a commercial gallery but over the years it has taken on various forms as different owners adapted it to suit their individual requirements. I took over the gallery in 2014 and with a background in visual arts and running art galleries, I wanted to re-establish it to its original form as a professionally run commercial gallery. Crucially, we provide opportunities for artists to sell their work and art lovers to visit, view and purchase quality original artwork. I have always loved working with artists and having the opportunity to connect them and their art with a broader audience. It is a privilege.
What makes your gallery unique?
Weswal showcases artwork by local, regional and national artists. We source high end products for our gallery shop by Australian designers and makers. This includes ceramics, wood, textile, silver, jewellery, glass and metal. We endeavour to develop exhibition program that is diverse and engaging. We work very closely with our clients. We can arrange individual commission pieces and works for home or office environments. As a registered art valuer, I can also provide an art valuation service.
What types of artists do you exhibit?
Regional NSW has a vibrant and active arts community. We source local, regional and national artists, both emerging and established in their careers. With genres in still life, landscape, abstract, figurative, representational and gestural, we endeavour to cater to a variety of tastes, styles, sizes and price ranges. We also sell art online and have a regularly updated website which features information about our exhibitions and events, and of course art and artists.
Do you have any upcoming shows?
The beautiful work of Rebecca Rath will show until 24 December 2020. The beginning of 2021 will feature two artists from within the New England region, Kerry Dunn (14 January to 31 January) and James White, (4 February to 7 March) and a solo exhibition by Lynne Flemons. It will be Lynne’s first time showing in the area so we are excited to introduce her!
Feature image: Michelle Hungerford, Forest Bathing I. Acrylic on aluminium, 81 x 60cm. Courtesy: the artists and Weswal Gallery.