Family Friendly Air Dry Clay Workshop 9:30am

Join local artist, Indeah Clark in a 1.5 hr free family friendly guided workshop. Clark will introduce particpants to the work of artist, respected Aboriginal Elder, the late Clifford James ‘Jim’ Ridgeway and guide you through the process of creating your own hand built vessel.

This free activity is part of Lake Macquarie City October Brilliant Together - a series of free, inclusive, and accessible community events designed to promote cultural appreciation, social cohesion, and connection among attendees.

These events are crafted to support our community and foster a shared sense of value, inviting everyone to partake in the vibrant tapestry of our collective experiences.

Join us in celebrating how we are brilliant together and discover the joy of coming together as one.

Workshop information:

• Sunday 27th October 2024
• Two sessions 9:30 - 11:00am and 12:30 - 2:00pm
• Family Friendly activity - open to participants 5 years and over. Participants of all ages are encouraged to attend.
• Take home your artwork on the day
• Free but registrations required. Numbers are capped.

Key information:

• Numbers are limited. If capacity is reached a waitlist will be enabled.
• If you are unable to attend please cancel your booking to allow others to attend.
• This workshop will be held in our marquee accessed via the MAC Terrace. Please dress for the weather. Closed toe shoes are required
• Parents/Guardians of children 12 years and under are required to stay onsite.
• Please assist our team by arriving between 10 - 5mins prior to activity start and checking in at the visitor services desk.
• For enquiries contact [email protected]
• This event may be photographed and filmed and your image could be used in advertising and promotion by Lake Macquarie City Council. Should you wish to not be photographed or filmed please advise event organisers on entry at the event.

About BARRAY Story Country: Uncle Jim Ridgeway

The paintings and ceramics of Uncle Jim Ridgeway echo petroglyphs and entrusted stories. These artworks trace stories of the artist’s connection to Birpui and Awabakal Country

Respected Aboriginal Elder, the late Clifford James ‘Jim’ Ridgeway grew up on a mission with the Biripi language group. From the age of 15 he was an amateur boxer with Les McNabb’s troupe until deciding to pursue his talent as a country and western singer. He became a celebrity in country music circles, scoring an award from Nashville, USA, and being named top Aboriginal country and western male vocalist in Australia in the late 1970s.

A serious car accident in the early 1990s diverted his career from singing to art, beginning with painting then ceramics. Uncle Jim Ridgeway was a founding member of the MAC yapang Aboriginal Refence Group and collaborated on artworks that are a feature of the MAC yapang Sculpture Park.

Curated by proud Wiradjuri and Wongibong woman Renae Lamb, with works from the permanent collection at MAC yapang.

Banner Image: Jim Ridegway Kangaroo 2002. hand coiled pottery, 280mm diameter

About the tutor: Indeah Clark

Indeah Clark is a dynamic visual artist working with contemporary concepts, seamlessly blending with low-brow aesthetics with a multidisciplinary approach. Primarily known for her captivating work in ceramics and printmaking, Clark’s artistic journey extends across animation, painting, film photography, and sculpture, embodying a versatility that keeps audiences engaged and intrigued.

At the heart of Clark’s practice lies a deep-seated love for the repetition of color and form weaving intricate patterns and visual motifs that resonate with viewers on a profound level Clark draws inspiration from the multifaceted identities that shape both her personal narrative and the broader community around her. Through her art, she delves into the complexities of human experience, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and cultural heritage. Her current major art influences are Kaylene Whiskey, Tony Albert, and Vincent Namatjira.