Yacaaba art walk
Yacaaba Artwalk
Yacaaba Walk of Art is an ongoing place activation initiative that supports artists to display artwork in an outdoor environment for the whole community to enjoy and experience in Nelson Bay. The program aims to:
- inspire the community’s imagination, allowing them to engage with arts and culture beyond the confines of a museum or gallery
- enhance Nelson Bay’s beautiful environment and create a vibrant, eye catching display as part of the waterfront of Nelson Bay.
- reinforce the unique identity and picturesque environment of Nelson Bay
- provide a highly visible platform for creative expression and development.
If you would like to learn more about Yacaaba Walk of Art or to discuss your ideas and questions, Please contact us on 4988 0255 or email us at publicart@portstephens.nsw.gov.au
Current artists are all members of Port Stephens Community Arts Centre and Artisan Collective and, through their creative skills, they have captured on paper their idea of the migratory birds that travel from Japan to Australia each year.
To locate these pieces of art head to the corner of Yacaaba and Magnus Street, Nelson Bay.
Artist: Anne-Maree Hunter
Artwork Statement The Snipe Cycle depicts the circular flyway of a Latham Snipe between Mt. Fuji, & the Tomaree and Yacaaba Headlands. Silhouettes of the birds in flight connect Japan to Port Stephens. A Latham’s Snipe is a migratory wading bird which flies the vast distances between Japan and Australia, and back again! The shape of our Headlands and Mt Fuji echo each other. Our headlands are the volcanic plugs of long extinct volcanoes while Japan’s famous Mt Fuji is still an active volcano. However, it is the wetlands and coastal marshes of both countries where the bird spends its time in. If these habitats are damaged or destroyed in either country, these birds are very vulnerable, and we are in danger of losing them. The Latham Snipe breeds in Japan and over-winters here. Artists Biography I have been a practicing artist and exhibiting since 1989 with 14 solo exhibitions. I grew up in the heart of Nelson Bay and studied Science and Education, then Fine Art at the University of Newcastle, where I subsequently completed a Ph.D and lectured. My interest in the environment continued as a volunteer at The Shortland Wetlands Centre (now the Hunter Wetlands Centre). Over the years there, I acted as a research assistant, tour guide, Teacher-in-Charge. My last role as the Displays Coordinator involved developing educational brochures, dioramas, displays & signage. These all utilized my science, education, and art skills. My work is in many Collections including the State Libraries in Victoria and Queensland. Website: psyclonicstudios.com.au
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Artist: Prue Sailer
Prue Sailer is a Port Stephens-based artist working in traditional drawing and painting media. She has exhibited regularly since 2009 in commercial and public galleries, both locally and interstate, and currently holds the position of Chair of Artisan Collective Port Stephens. Her works are held in private collections within Australia and overseas. Prue has studied Fine Art and Natural History Illustration and has been a finalist in the Holmes Prize for Realistic Australian Bird Art several times. Her work has been published in Australian Geographic and Feather and Brush: A History of Australian Bird Art (2nd ed). The natural world provides Prue with the inspiration and motivation to create realistic depictions of Australian wildlife, particularly our birds. Diligent observation and research allow her to capture their defining features and individual character. A key influence in Prue’s work is the impact of humanity on the natural environment and how it affects each species. Wetland habitats essential to the survival of the Latham’s Snipe are increasingly at risk from industrialisation, urban development and drying of wetlands. In this work Prue has depicted them in flight, with their destination in sight, highlighting their incredible endurance as they complete a gruelling non-stop journey from northern Japan each year. During Spring and Summer, they rest and feed in thickly vegetated wetlands where they are well camouflaged. Website: https://www.sailerstudio.com.au/ |
Artist: Port Stephens Community Arts Centre - Monday Painters
In celebration of the 30th anniversary of the sister city agreement between Kishiro, Japan, and the Port Stephens Council, 35 talented community artists from the Monday Painters group at Port Stephens Community Arts Centre collaborated on a unique and meaningful project during April and May 2024. This initiative aimed to highlight the rich biodiversity of the Mambo Wetlands, an area of significant ecological importance and beauty. The project brought together artists of various styles, mediums, and expertise to jointly create a large-scale artwork that showcases the diverse flora and fauna of the Mambo Wetlands. Each artist contributed a section of the artwork, depicting different inhabitants and aspects of the wetlands, from its vibrant birdlife and intricate plant species to the serene aquatic environment. A background was painted during the weekly art meetings with many artists adding their mark on the canvas. Fauna and Flora subjects were painted individually by the artists. The finished items were then cut out and applied onto the background. This collaborative piece not only celebrates the natural heritage of Port Stephens but also strengthens cultural ties with Kishiro, reflecting the spirit of unity and mutual respect fostered over the past three decades. The completed artwork is part of the Yacaaba Walk display during the 30th Anniversary celebrations. Representatives from both sister cities, community members, and local officials, will be able enjoy the artwork symbolizing the enduring friendship and shared commitment to environmental conservation. The project stands as a testament to the power of community and the arts in bridging cultural divides and fostering a sense of collective pride and responsibility towards preserving our natural world. Website: https://artscentrenelsonbay.org.au/ |
Artist: Nada O Loughlin Yonge
This Painting of the BAR-TAILED GODWIT is a breed that holds the world record for a non-stop flight of 11 days from Alaska to Tasmania and can be seen on wetlands and foreshores of our local area. Nada O’Loughlin Yonge is a distinguished artist known for her captivating Acrylic and Watercolour paintings. With a passion for both mediums, she enjoys sharing her skills and techniques through her watercolour group at the Port Stephens Community Arts Centre. Her dedication to art and teaching will be highlighted in an upcoming exhibition of the group's work later this year. Nada's expertise and unique style have earned her recognition both in Australia and internationally. Currently, her primary focus is on capturing the stunning coastline of Port Stephens, bringing its beauty to life in her paintings. Residing in Corlette, Nelson Bay, with her husband Geoffrey Yonge, Nada continually experiments with various styles and subject matter, broadening her artistic horizons. Her gallery is a testament to her versatility, featuring a diverse range of subjects including Australian wildlife, Venetian scenes, and vibrant floral compositions. Nada's works are not only a reflection of her artistic journey but also pieces that bring elegance and charm to any home. Her continuous growth and experimentation make her a dynamic and inspirational figure in the art community. Website: https://artscentrenelsonbay.org.au/ |
