About Ocean Shores Art Expo
The Ocean Shores Art Expo (OSAE) is a true community event, bringing people together with a sense of belonging in a creative, fun and inspiring weekend which has become a regular feature on the local calendar. Every year it expands, with over 300 adult artworks and nearly 400 student works. The Art Expo attracts over 1000 visitors to the exhibition and cultural performances each year.
In 2020 the OSAE was cancelled along with the Festival of the Imagination which runs on the same weekend at the Ocean Shores Public School.
In 2021 we are running the OSAE primarily online as at the time of planning the school was not holding any events. We are holding a smaller live event showcasing the Winners and School Art at the Ocean Shores Country Club on 9-10th October 2021.
We are hoping to be back to a larger Expo next year!
How it works
Professional artists to beginners, kids to elderly, all are welcome to enter artworks. It is inspiring for beginners to see their works alongside the experienced and for children to exhibit alongside adults.
New judges every year select adult winners in seven categories announced at the Opening Night.
With the support of generous sponsors, we are able to provide a high-quality event for all the community. We are grateful for their community spirit.
Some sponsors believe in community culture and the arts so much that they support us every year.
Traditionally, the Expo has been held at the Ocean Shores Public School hall over three days. Art lovers and buyers can appreciate and buy affordable art from a huge variety of styles, sizes and prices. During the weekend there are local musicians performing and artists demonstrating.
The school’s Festival of the Imagination is held on the Saturday with art displays, creative workshops, music, fun rides, craft stalls, food, plant and book stalls. A great family day which we sincerely hope will be back in this capacity once the COVID situation has been dealt with.
How it started
In 2004 a group of Ocean Shores residents bonded through organizing colourful performance protests about the location of an upcoming super-highway.
With that issue over, they realized that an uplifting and imaginative community event was needed to continue bringing people together. They came up with the idea of the Art Expo to celebrate the cultural and artistic diversity of our uniquely creative population.
The local residents' vision was actively supported by the Brunswick Mullumbimby Lions Club, whose members have maintained an ongoing commitment to the event.
Function of OSAE
To provide:
- an opportunity for the Ocean Shores community to host a regional cultural event which encourages an evolving sense of cohesiveness within the community;
- an opportunity for artists and school students of all ages and skills to participate in a community art show thereby fostering innovation and creativity;
- an event which brings together volunteers from the residential, educational, service organisations and business community;
- a sense of belonging through local history perspectives;
when possible, funding support for local community organisations.
