At Paddington Uniting Church, the arts and wellness programs are flourishing under the creative leadership of Georgina (Georgie) Hare. As coordinator of both streams, Georgie brings a clear vision: to build an inclusive, accessible and community-minded cultural hub.
The arts program is quickly gaining momentum, with resident studios now open for visual artists and writers. “We’ve just leased the writer’s room to Johnny, a screenwriter and comedian,” Georgie says. “And we’re in the process of welcoming our first visual artists to the two available studio spaces.” Artists are invited to lease the space for a minimum of three months, with a view to long-term residency and creative exchange.
Workshops are another key aspect. “We’re inviting painters, crafters and creators of all kinds to run classes and workshops here – whether it’s a monthly painting session or a weekly watercolour group,” Georgie explains. Facilitators either take a revenue split on ticketed events or pay a small hire fee, depending on the model that suits them best.
The hall is also being activated as a rehearsal venue, welcoming movement artists, theatre groups and musicians. “We want the space to be alive with experimentation,” Georgie says. “Art happening in real time.” Occasional exhibitions and public showings will follow.
Accessibility is at the heart of the project. “We’re deliberately keeping costs low,” Georgie says, “because too often in cities, creative space is only available to the privileged. That’s not what we’re about. We want the art here to reflect all of society – not just one part of it.” Artists can apply by contacting Georgie via Instagram (@thechurchartshub), where expressions of interest and guidelines are posted.
Complementing the arts program is a dynamic wellness schedule. Weekly offerings include open yoga, breathwork, sound healing, meditation, and a growing selection of parent-and-baby classes. “We’ve just added conscious dance – think sober Sunday morning dance parties with a DJ – and progressive parenting workshops informed by RIE [Resources for Infant Educarers] principles,” says Georgie.
“These sessions aren’t just about wellbeing,” she adds. “They’re about community, creativity, connection. It all ties back to holistic approaches to living and making together.”
Music also features prominently, with live performances on Friday and Saturday nights curated by Rob. “Jazz, experimental sound, a bar, tickets on the door – it’s a vibe,” Georgie says. Check out @thechurchpaddolive for upcoming gigs.
The Paddington Uniting Church faith community is fully behind the project. There’s crossover between congregation and programs, from members joining meditation sessions to market visitors dropping in to knit beanies for the Hats for Homeless project.
“This is about filling the space with life,” Georgie says. “We’re open to ideas – craft shows, installations, experimental works – things that bring people together. We want to make space for the unexpected.”
Follow on Instagram: @thechurchartshub @thechurchpaddolive @thechurchwellness @thechurchpaddo
Or email Georgie directly: georgie@paddingtonuca.org.au
