This month you will note that my thoughts and writing have turned to art, and especially the heritage-listed National Art School in Darlinghurst.
24th Annual Sculpture by the Sea – October 21 to November 7
Returning again this year, it’s hard to believe that this 2km coastal walk from Tamarama to Bondi is the largest free exhibition in the world, with 100 works and installations from artists from Australia and across the world. Don’t forget, sunscreen, hats and water. It can get hot. Download maps, and other information at https://sculpturebythesea/bondi or you can phone 02 8399 0233.
National Art School and Gallery at the Old Darlinghurst Gaol
The current exhibition Captivate which ends on October 30 is a program of stories ranged across this heritage-listed campus, where building of the Gaol commenced 200 years ago. Opening hours are Monday to Sunday 11am-5pm. Entry is free and well worth a visit, just to be part of the history of the site: https://nas.edu.au/captivate/.
Japan Foundation Art Gallery, Level 4, Central Park Mall
Open Monday to Friday 10am-6pm, and Saturday 11am-4pm with free entry. I’ve never been to this gallery, but it comes highly recommended. The current exhibition Story Makers in Contemporary Japanese Art features works by five contemporary artists until January 28, 2023. For more information: https://jpf.org.au/events/.
National Mental Health Month – October 1-31
This year’s theme is Building Resilience: Communities and Connections, and will be launched at Parliament House, Sydney on Saturday October 1, between 10am-12pm.Unfortunately all tickets are allocated, but the event will be livestreamed for those who are interested. For details see https://mhfa.org.au/.
Celebrate Spring at the SSH Volunteers and Supporters Picnic – October 15 (Redfern Park 12-2pm)
I know I’m a hypocrite, but I hate picnics. This is a longstanding problem from my childhood in Scotland, when the local gentry would open their grand estate to the hoi polloi, and where picnics were cold. I got thrown off a bad-tempered Shetland pony, and probably ruined my relationships with horses for ever!!
But don’t let this deter you from joining us on October 15 as we celebrate our wonderful SSH family with a day of relaxation and fun. A special gift for all volunteers!
We will meet at the Park Café on Chalmers, with thanks to Peter and Elly for coffees and muffins. Volunteer distributor Eleanor will emcee a Special Trivia Quiz with prizes. You might like to form a trivia team of 4-5 people – and think of a fun name for your team. The Sydney Street Choir will perform too. Bring a blanket or chair, sun hat and sunscreen.
And, finally, the Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme resumes public hearings in Brisbane on October 31. Hopefully there will be justice for the thousands of unsuspecting people caught up in this scandal.
Until next time,
Pat Clarke
volunteers@ssh.com.au
