Mainstreet artists reside in the workshop at the Latrobe Regional Gallery in Morwell. Here, artists from Life Skills Victoria, meet weekly to paint, draw, create, learn new skills and techniques using a range of art materials and mediums. Each artist works on their individual project with guidance from tutors.
Mainstreet began in 1992 under the banner of Mainstreet Artworks at ARC Yinnar - the oldest artist run co-op in existence in Australia! In the 30 years Mainstreet has been in operation, many professional artists and guest visiting artists have tutored the Mainstreet artists, expanding their skills and repertoires as well as providing expertise and encouragement to the artists.
Mainstreet artists have exhibited and sold their work from the very beginning. Recently the artists have had their art professionally photographed and published on blank cards and postcards which can be purchased from Latrobe Regional Gallery.
In March this year the current Mainstreet artists ‘were thrilled to be part of the Latrobe City Council’s International Women’s Day Art Project’, said Dr Carole Broxham, CEO of Life Skills Victoria. Latrobe City Council provided the artists with the results of a survey completed by the individual winners. It was the artist’s job to interpret this information and create an artwork using their preferred medium inspired by the winners’ personal attributes and interests, explained Dr Broxham.
Mayor of Latrobe City Cr Kellie O'Callaghan said it was an honour to be able to promote the work of each of the artists.
"We are grateful for the support of Mainstreet artists who have created one-of-a-kind artworks for the winners of our International Women's Day Art Project."
More of the Mainstreet artist work can be viewed at the high street community hub at 4 High Street, Moe.