Shearers’ digs get artistic makeover

Inan old shearers’ quarters, halfway between Elsthorpe and Kairakau beach, an idea that evolved during lockdown has becomea reality— anda successful one at that.

The brainchild of Kerry Scheele, Barbara Golden and Nicola Wall, the Elsthorpe Artisans gallery started life as a funfamily activity to help keep spiritsupduring lockdown.

“Wedecided to give ourselves and mygrandchildren a themedart project each week,” Kerry says.

FromAboriginal art to decorating pieces of4x2thefamilies rose to the challenge, butwhenthings got back to normal Kerry says they felt a void.

“Nicola suggestedwetake it further and open it upto the community,” Kerry says.

Aftermuchdiscussion the decisionwasmadeto convert the old shearers’ quarters on the farm at 299 Kairakau Road into a gallery.

“Weput a notice in the Elsthorpe School newsletter and were staggered at the response,” Kerry says.

Currently displaying for sale the art and craftwork ofmorethan 20 local artists, the gallery offers an eclectic array of work —from

traditional paintings to sculpture to suit all tastes and pockets.

“Wedon’t charge commission to our artists becausewefeel it important to encourage local artists to participate and to keep the artwork affordable,” Kerry says.

“Labourweekend wasahuge success as passersby flocked in and everyone sold something,” she added.

Openevery Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10amto4pm throughout the summer, the gallery

ison a popular route for people heading out to Kairakau Beach or just enjoying adrive in the beautifulCHB countryside.

It is a great place to pickupan affordablemementoof your visit or aChristmas pressie or two.

The old shearers’ quarters has a new lease of life as Elsthorpe Artisans gallery.

The eclectic array of work spans traditional paintings to sculpture.

Upcycled items have a place in the gallery’s eclectic collection.

The gallery supports 20 local artists, who fill the walls with their work.