¶ THE Collie Art Gallery hosted a celebration marking its 10-year anniversary last Saturday.
Gallery coordinator Payam Parishanzadeh said that in the 10 years since its establishment the gallery has “become very important to the town”.
Mr Parishanzadeh, who will himself mark 10 years at the gallery in November, said it caters to a large art community in town.
“Ever since the gallery has been here, it has become a hub for artists,” Mr Parishanzadeh said.
“Not only has it been very effective in bringing locals to the gallery, it has also brought people here from around the state and the country.”
A large part of the gallery’s broader appeal, outside of Collie, is due to the running of the biennial Collie Art Prize, Mr Parishanzadeh added.
“The prize has helped the gallery become increasingly known since it started in 2018,” he said.
“It has actually put the gallery on the map, and made the gallery known to some more established artists across Australia.”
Mr Parishanzadeh noted the gallery’s collaboration with the Art Gallery of Western Australia has also been a key factor in its growth.
Looking forward, he expects the gallery will continue to build on its popularity and grow its status as it continues to target the staging of popular exhibitions.
“I think the gallery is going to become even more popular over time,” Mr Parishanzadeh said.