2025 Art Almanac : simplebooklet.com

An almanac is a publication containing a variety ofuseful information, typically organized around acalendar year. Historically, almanacs have included data onastronomical events, weather forecasts, plantingschedules, tide tables, and later, articles on a widerange of topics. Their evolution reflects societalshifts and the growing accessibility of knowledge.Origins and Early UseThe term "almanac" derives from medieval Latin"almanachus," though its precise origins areuncertain. Some scholars trace its roots to Arabictraditions. Almanacs date back to ancient times,with early examples from Babylon, Greece, andRome containing astronomical and agriculturalguidance.During the medieval period, Islamic scholarsadvanced almanac-making with detailedastronomical tables and calendars. This knowledgeinfluenced European traditions through thetranslation movement in Spain during the 12th and13th centuries.Renaissance and Printed AlmanacsThe invention of the printing press in the 15thcentury revolutionized almanac production. Thefirst printed almanacs appeared in Europe andgained widespread popularity. These publicationsoffered a mix of astronomical data, advice forfarmers, religious calendars, and astrologicalpredictions.One of the earliest and most famous examples isthe Ephemerides by Johannes Müller(Regiomontanus), published in 1474. It was used bynavigators like Christopher Columbus and played avital role in the Age of Exploration.A Brief History of Almanac Publications2Almanacs in AustraliaAlmanacs played a significant role in earlyAustralian colonial life. Settlers and farmersdepended on almanacs for vital information aboutplanting seasons, weather patterns, and tides. Thepublication of The Australian Farmer’s Almanacbegan in the 19th century, catering specifically tothe unique climatic and agricultural conditions ofthe continent.One notable publication, The Australasian Almanac,offered a blend of local astronomical data, farmingadvice, and general knowledge, reflecting theneeds of a growing colony. These almanacs oftenserved as practical tools for settlers navigatingunfamiliar environments.Today, Australian almanacs like the Aussie FarmersAlmanac continue to provide specialisedinformation, including advice on sustainable farmingpractices, indigenous seasonal calendars, andpredictions for bushfire risks.Modern AlmanacsBy the 19th and 20th centuries, almanacs diversifiedfurther. Some, like the Farmers’ Almanac(established in 1818), maintained their agriculturalfocus. Others, like The World Almanac and Book ofFacts (first published in 1868), expanded intogeneral knowledge, including statistics, sportsrecords, and cultural trivia.In recent decades, digital technology hastransformed the almanac into an online resource,with many publications offering searchabledatabases and interactive tools.They remain popular among niche audiences,including farmers, trivia enthusiasts, and thoseinterested in astronomical events.The enduring appeal of almanacs lies in theiradaptability and their role as compact, accessiblerepositories of knowledge for daily life.A R T A L M A N A C 2 0 2 5

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In 2024, the Central Coast Council engaged a tourism consulting firm to transform community-based council venues into profit-making centers. Although the report is pending, it appears theEast Gosford community gallery will be less accessible to the community, FAVOURINGprofessional, curated exhibitions. Similar changes are expected for community-based performingarts groups.If you belong to another creative society and feel they may gain by being involved, please letthem know about this initiative. Contact your society president to convey your ideas and support.3All the art societies on the coast, that we areaware of, have been reduced to one exhibitper year and some have lost the opportunityto exhibit at the community galleryaltogether!In October, the Presidents of the CentralCoast Watercolour Society (CCWS), CentralCoast Art Society (CCAS), Toukley andDistrict Art Society (TADAS) and TuggerahLakes Art Society (TLAS) - representing amembership of approximately 500 creatives -met and agreed to form a ‘Combined Arts’ towork together with a short term and a longer-term objective in mind. It was agreed toreach out to the other creative societies onthe Central Coast to join the collective withthe only prerequisite being they areincorporated and not-for-profit. The following is a draft of our Aims andObjectives:The Central Coast Combined Arts aim is toprovide the incorporated art societies on theCentral Coast of NSW the opportunity to:- Work together to promote community-basedcreative and art groups to each other andthe general public.-To represent the art societies as a united,cohesive accord to local, state and federalgovernment to maintain the community ethoswhich is in jeopardy from current localplanning.- To acquire a community base, central in thelocal government area, to be the CombinedArts’ creative space for workshops,exhibitions, meetings, admin, markets andmeeting point.We invite your insights and suggestions as wework together to build the Central CoastCombined Arts.email: secretary@tlas.auA R T A L M A N A C 2 0 2 5central coast combined arts - working together

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4Tuggerah Lakes Art SocietyAs we step into the new year, it feels like 2024 hasvanished in the blink of an eye. Here we are in 2025,and TLAS is well-prepared with a series of excitingevents. Our Women in Art Exhibition is scheduled for March, followed by Our Natural World in August,and our newly revamped Fab Fakes in September. All the details can be found on our website,so it's time to start painting!Reflecting on 2024, it was a vibrant and engaging year. None of this would have been possiblewithout our volunteers' dedication and hard work. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude toevery one of them for their invaluable contributions. This includes our amazing tutors at theTLAS Academy (recommencing on Wednesday 15th January 2025). Looking ahead, new members are especially important as they bring fresh ideas andperspectives that help us grow and evolve. We’re also changing our Members’ Meeting to theMonthly Art Bash, fun and informal meetings, and you’re invited! Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm. Let's make 2025 a year to remember!Rasheeda Flight, president@tlas.au

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5The Society aims to encourage andpromote the Arts for our members andthe local Central Coast communitythrough linking with the local communityin a Community Art Centre, develop artistic skills with classes andworkshops, present professional and highquality bi-monthly exhibitions andfundraise for our community. OUR NEXT EXHIBITION - ‘Just Breath’Opens 31 January 2025. After the rush of the Christmas seasonand a new year starting, it’s time to allowour art to reflect a time to pauseand….breathe! Art classes run every week throughoutthe year for $20 for 3 hours from 12noonto 3pm offering a new skill and topicweekly primarily for beginners tointermediate artists. • Monday - Acrylic painting with SandyWilliams start 13th January 2025 • Thursday – Drawing with RichardJeziorny starts 9th January then ColouredPencils with Mollie Lennon in February • Friday - Watercolour painting withPenny Murison starts 10th January 2025 • Saturday - Mixed Media with DenisePainter starts 11th January 2025 Monthly Sunday workshops starts 23rdFebruary 2025 – Gel Printing with JoStanes Social Groups run weekly with amentor • Drawing. Tuesdays 10am - 1pm withRichard Jeziorny. • Painting. Wednesdays 9:30am –12:30pm with Peter Tassell For more information on any of ouractivities visit our website www.toukletartgallery.com.au President: Wendy SymonsToukley And Districts Art SocietyInc. operate a community galleryon the shore of Tuggerah/Budgewoi Lake showcasing artworks and handcrafted giftwareby talented local artists. Thegallery and kiosk are open 10am to4pm daily, run by membervolunteers.

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The Central Coast Art Society are excited as to where this collaboration will take us all and lookforward to a time where we can operate without the uncertainty of exhibition and workshopvenues we are currently experiencing. Exciting times ahead!The CCAS has returned to pre-epidemic vitality and membership numbers and look back on avery successful 2024 with its concentration on social interaction, quality but inclusive exhibitionsand varied opportunities for our members to express their creativity. 6Central Coast Art Society2025 heralds a new era in our coast art societies’ ethosand approach to the challenges of providing an outlet andshowcase for our coast creatives! Whilst we all provide adifferent artistic offer to our creative community, we havesimilar challenges and have come together in a sense ofcollaboration and support. Our paint outs on Tuesday morningsare growing in number and wewelcome all members of the Coast artsocieties to join us as we explore thehidden vistas and painting/sketchingopportunities on our beautiful coast. CCAS workshops are held at GosfordCommunity Gallery two Wednesdays ofeach month and the programme is bothquality and varied with some unusualart mediums being taught – non-members welcome. Life drawing is held in Kincumber onFridays. Check the CCAS website fordetails.Kathy McCombie president@ccas.au2025 is already showing signs ofgrowth and expansion with strongmembership renewals, the inclusion ofphotography, sculpture and first-timeexhibitors vying for awards in ourSummer Exhibition commencing onthe 17 January at Gosford CommunityGallery. A R T A L M A N A C 2 0 2 5

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7 Our newly formed collaboration with other art societies promises to lead in a new era for the Artson the Coast. Our much-appreciated volunteers are our lifeblood leading us forward.The CCWS can look back on 2024 with pride of achievement. We focus on improving members' skillin watercolour through Beginner, Intermediate and weekend workshops filled with locally, nationallyand internationally recognised watercolour artists and tutors. Our two successful exhibitions andparticipation in 2 national exhibitions were great proof of these growing skills. We have had a yearof changes including a new website and revamped Newsletter. We kept up our ethos of spreading the word about fantastic watercolours with two well-attended‘Try Your Hand’ weekends and our ‘Painting By The Lake’ event in November, part of The LakesFestival, which was free and open to the public. We hope to continue with these opportunities to engage with the public and other artists in 2025.President: Sue Marshal www.centralcoastwatercolour.com.auCentral Coast Watercolour Society Our team’s ongoing efforts throughout the yearparticularly with Exhibitions and Workshops haveput us in good stead for the year ahead. 2025 isour 40th Anniversary and we’ll be celebrating allyear with a very special 40th Exhibition in August,International Canadian tutor Michel Solovyev’sworkshop and a sumptuous dinner in Septemberplus a few surprises along the way. A R T A L M A N A C 2 0 2 5You are invited to a WOW Think In on Tuesday, 11 March 2025, from 2-4pm at Red Tree Theatre,Tuggerah. Register http://tix.yt/central-coast-wow-festival-think-in This catered communityconsultation/workshop, hosted by the Central Coast International Women’s Day CombinedCommittee (CCIWDCC), will mark the next stages of planning for the CC Women of the WorldFestival in 2026.At the workshop, you can raise issues you want included in the festival, suggest performers andspeakers, and participate in future planning. We will also identify who is not in the room and how toinclude them. WOW Australia will be present to offer guidance.WOW events celebrate women in our community and their leadership, featuring conversations,keynotes, workshops, performances, and exhibitions. The festival is open to everyone and aims toinspire and engage through a variety of activities.The CCIWDCC, established 10 years ago, coordinates events and activities for InternationalWomen’s Day on the Central Coast. It brings together women’s organisations to discuss broaderissues and maximise publicity.For more information, contact Jill Godwin at 0416 033 349 or Sally Jope at 0423 198 567. Learn more about WOW www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdqV3UsmFyQcentral coast women of the world festival 2026

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Turner was the guy who looked at a stormy sea and thought, "You know what this needs? Moredrama!" His paintings were like the blockbuster movies of his time, full of epic sunsets, turbulentseas, and dramatic skies.Turner was also known for his eccentricities. He once tied himself to the mast of a ship during astorm just to get a better sense of the scene he wanted to paint. Talk about dedication! His contemporaries were often baffled by his work, but Turner didn't care. He was too busyrevolutionizing landscape painting and paving the way for Impressionism.So, next time you see a breathtaking sunset or a dramatic seascape, give a nod to Turner—the original master of atmospheric drama and the ultimate weather enthusiast.Mrs Mac is also on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uppercumbackwest“Oh my, I’ve had a bit of wind lately, of the weather kind,and immediately thought of those Turner artworks”Ah, J.M.W. Turner, the original "Turner of the Tide" in the art world! Imagine a man soobsessed with capturing the essence of light and atmosphere that he practicallyinvented the Instagram filter—200 years before Instagram was even a thing. J.M.W. Turner's The Fighting Temeraire Tugged to Her Last Berth to Be Broken UpArtwork On Australia Post Stamps9A R T A L M A N A C 2 0 2 5mrs mac’s arty facts

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Feeling creative? Try one a day Answers on back page - no peeping! Famous Artists and Their WorksWho painted the Mona Lisa?Which artist is known for the Starry Night painting?What is the name of the artist who created the sculpture "The Thinker"?Art MovementsWhich art movement is characterized by the use of geometric shapes and a limited color palette?Name the art movement that emerged in the 19th century and focused on capturing light andnatural forms.Which movement is known for its abstract and non-representational art?Art TechniquesWhat is the technique called where small dots of color are applied in patterns to form an image?Which technique involves applying thick layers of paint to create texture on the canvas?What is the term for a painting done on wet plaster?Art HistoryWho is considered the father of the Italian Renaissance?Which ancient civilization is known for its pyramids and hieroglyphic writing?What was the primary material used by ancient Greek sculptors?Modern ArtWho is the artist behind the famous Campbell's Soup Cans artwork?Which artist is known for his "drip" painting technique?Name the artist who created the Balloon Dog sculptures.Art in Pop CultureWhich artist's work is featured on the cover of The Beatles' "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts ClubBand" album?What is the name of the artist who designed the iconic "LOVE" sculpture?Which artist's painting was famously stolen from the Louvre in 1911 and recovered two years later?10A R T A L M A N A C 2 0 2 5art bingoart quiz

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WESTERN ART HAS A RICH AND DIVERSE HISTORY THAT STRETCHES OVER THOUSANDS OFYEARS, REFLECTING THE CULTURAL, POLITICAL, AND SOCIAL CHANGES OF THE TIMES. ITENCOMPASSES A BROAD RANGE OF STYLES AND MOVEMENTS, EACH MARKED BY ITS UNIQUECHARACTERISTICS AND CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE ARTISTIC LANDSCAPE.Ancient ArtThe roots of Western art can be traced back toancient civilisations such as Egypt, Greece, andRome. Egyptian art is known for its symbolic andformulaic depictions, aimed at ensuring asuccessful afterlife for the deceased. Greek artintroduced the concept of naturalism, with anemphasis on idealised human forms, as seen intheir sculptures and pottery. Roman art, heavilyinfluenced by Greek art, excelled in realisticportraiture and expansive architectural feats.Medieval ArtFollowing the fall of the Roman Empire, theMedieval period saw the rise of religious-themed art. The Byzantine Empire producediconic mosaics and frescoes, while theRomanesque and Gothic styles dominatedWestern Europe. The Gothic period, inparticular, is celebrated for its architecturaladvancements, including the use of flyingbuttresses and stained glass windows incathedrals.RenaissanceThe Renaissance, beginning in Italy in the 14thcentury, marked a resurgence of interest inclassical antiquity. Artists such as Leonardo daVinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael revolutionizedart with their mastery of perspective, anatomy,and human emotion. This period ischaracterised by a return to naturalism, thedevelopment of linear perspective, and thecreation of some of the most iconic works inWestern art.11A R T A L M A N A C 2 0 2 5verya brief history of western art

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Baroque and RococoThe 17th and 18th centuries brought the Baroqueand Rococo periods, known for their dramatic,ornate, and elaborate styles. Baroque art, withits dynamic compositions and intense emotions,was used to convey religious themes and glorifythe monarchy. Rococo, a reaction against theBaroque's seriousness, favored lighter, playfulthemes, and delicate ornamentation.Neoclassicism and RomanticismThe late 18th and early 19th centuries saw therise of Neoclassicism and Romanticism.Neoclassical art drew inspiration from classicalantiquity, emphasizing harmony, simplicity, andproportion. In contrast, Romanticism embracedemotion, individualism, and nature, reactingagainst the industrial revolution's rationality andorder.Modern and Contemporary ArtThe late 19th and 20th centuries witnessed theexplosion of various art movements, eachchallenging traditional perceptions andtechniques. Impressionism, led by artists likeMonet and Degas, focused on capturing lightand everyday scenes. Post-Impressionism, withfigures like Van Gogh and Gauguin,emphasized emotional depth and individualexpression. The 20th century further introducedmovements such as Cubism, Surrealism,Abstract Expressionism, and Pop Art, eachpushing the boundaries of creativity andinterpretation.In contemporary times, Western artcontinues to evolve, reflecting thecomplex and diverse nature of modernsociety. It remains a dynamic field thatconstantly redefines itself, blendingtraditional techniques with new mediaand technology.CONTINUED12A R T A L M A N A C 2 0 2 5verya brief history of western art

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1. Explore Nature - Take a walk in a park, bush, or by the sea. Observethe colours, textures, and light. Nature can inspirelandscapes, abstract patterns, or even conceptualpieces.2. Study Other Artists - Look at the work of other painters, both contemporaryand historical. Focus on their techniques, use of colour,or the emotions they convey. It’s not about copying butsparking ideas.3. Try a New Medium or Technique - Experiment with something outside your comfortzone, like watercolors if you usually work with oils, oradd texture using mixed media.4. Sketch Daily - Keep a sketchbook to doodle or jot down visualideas, even if they seem unpolished. These can laterevolve into larger works.5. Engage with Music - Play music while you work or let a particular songinspire your painting. Try expressing the rhythm, mood,or lyrics visually.6. Reflect on Emotions - Use personal experiences or emotions as the basisfor your art. Joy, sadness, or nostalgia can translate intopowerful pieces.7. Visit Galleries and Exhibitions - Immerse yourself in art by visiting galleries,museums, or local art fairs. Sometimes, seeing whatothers are creating is highly motivating.8. Experiment with Color - Play with unusual color palettes. Choose a single hueand explore its various tones, or create a piece withunexpected color combinations.9. Work on a Theme or Series - Develop a series of paintings based on a theme,such as seasons, memories, or cultural motifs. Thisprovides direction and momentum.10. Seek Stories and Symbols - Read books, poetry, or myths to draw inspiration.Symbolic imagery and storytelling can add depth to yourwork.1411. Photograph Your Surroundings - Use photography to capture interestingcompositions, lighting, or textures to reference in yourwork later.12. Challenge Yourself - Set constraints, like only using three colors orcreating a painting within a set time. Constraints canpush you to innovate.13. Collaborate with Other Creatives - Join forces with another artist, writer, or musician.Collaborative projects can inspire fresh perspectives.14. Revisit Old Work - Look at your past art. You may find ideas you canreinterpret or improve upon.15. Take a Break - Sometimes stepping away from the canvas anddoing something unrelated (like cooking, gardening,or traveling) can spark new ideas.16. Use Prompts - Try drawing prompts, like “paint your favoritememory” or “imagine a world where trees are blue.”Prompts can open up new pathways for creativity.17. Observe People - Sketch people in public places like parks or cafes.Their postures, expressions, and interactions caninspire storytelling.18. Learn Something New - Take a class or workshop in a different art form orskill, like pottery, dance, or photography. Broadeningyour horizons can lead to unexpected artisticbreakthroughs.19. Tap Into Dreams - Keep a dream journal and translate the surrealimagery into your art.20. Stay Open to Mistakes** - Treat every "mistake" as a potential opportunity.Accidents often lead to innovation and new directions.A R T A L M A N A C 2 0 2 5Marco Polo introduced rhubarb to Europe from the court of the Chinese Emperor Kublai Khan.The English horn is neither English nor a horn. It's a French alto oboe.Women blink nearly twice as much as men.A group of hippos is called a crash.Your ears never stop growing during your entire lifetime.Two-thirds of humans are not aware of what they are good at and what their strengths are, accordingto the Journal of Positive Psychology.The Ultimate Trivia Collection: by Graham Cann. The World's Most Weird and Wonderful Random Facts 20 tips to inspire creativitytrivia

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The design of the 1957 Christmas stamp, issued on 6 November 1957 and designed and engraved byDonald Cameron (based on a painting by SirJoshua Reynolds), depicts a child at prayer andthe star of Bethlehem, emphasizing the spiritualsignificance of Christmas.Christmas stamps have been issued by Australiaevery year since 1957, a longer period of time thanany other country in the world. Previously, somecountries issued stamps featuring Christmasthemes, including Austria (1937, 1953 & 1954) andCuba (1951 & 1952), although these stamp issuesdid not become regular recurring issues, at thetime.Other countries to introduce Christmas stampsfollowing Australia’s example include NewZealand (1960), United States (1962), Canada(1964) and Great Britain (1966). Every year since1975, a lower rate of postage than basic letterpostage has applied to greeting cards mailed inAustralia during November and December.In 1957, Australia issued Christmas stamps for the first time. This was intended to be an experiment but following favourablepublic reaction, it was decided to issue Christmas stamps annually.A world first.15A R T A L M A N A C 2 0 2 5we’ve got this one licked

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16Tomoko Oka | The Crane and theKookaburra Now - 28 Jan 20259:30am - 4:00pmFreeMain GalleryNicola Hooper | ZoonosesNow - 02 Feb 20259:30am - 4:00pmFreeMain GalleryTania Mason | Surrounded by Time witha Canary in a Coal Mine01 Feb 2025 - 23 Feb 20259:30am - 4pmFoyer GalleryEthan-james Kotiau | Dandhi - Grounded15 Feb 2025 - 23 Mar 20259:30am - 4pmFreeMain GalleryART in CONFLICT15 Feb 2025 - 23 Mar 20259:30am - 4pmFreeMain GalleryGosford Regional GalleryNSW Art Galleryhttps://www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/Maitland Regional Art Galleryhttps://mrag.org.au/Newcastle Art Galleryis currently closed due to renovation andscheduled to reopen in September 2025https://nag.org.au/Abstract: When the artist decides thatpainting a recognisable object is just toomainstream.Impressionism: When you squint at apainting and it finally makes sense.Cubism: When you want to paint a personbut also want to show off your geometryskills.Surrealism: When your dreams are weirderthan reality, and you decide to paint them.Mixed Media: When you can't decide onone art supply, so you use them all.Negative Space: The part of the canvaswhere the artist ran out of ideas.Palette Knife: A fancy way of saying "I painted this with a butter knife."Triptych: When one painting isn't enough,so you make three and call it a day.Blank Canvas: When the artist is staring ata white rectangle, hoping inspiration willstrike before they run out of coffee.Artist's Easel: The trusty wooden stand thatholds your canvas while you create yourmasterpiece. Also doubles as a coat rackwhen inspiration is taking a break.Art terms that won't make youfeel like you need a monocle anda beret.A R T A L M A N A C 2 0 2 5galleriesfun terms

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17Flowering Plants: Coastal flowering plants can addbold colours and form.Geraniums: Hardy and colourful, perfect forborders or pots.Correas: These Australian natives have beautifulbell-shaped flowers in red, pink, or yellow.2. Garden Products for Coastal EnvironmentsSoil Amendments & Fertilisers:Seaweed Extract: Rich in minerals and perfectfor coastal gardens. Seaweed is an excellentnatural fertiliser for both soil health and plantgrowth.Compost & Mulch: Organic compost is a greatsoil conditioner, and mulch helps retainmoisture and protect roots during summer.Mycorrhizal Fungi: This can help improve planthealth in less-than-ideal soils, which arecommon in coastal areas.Coastal-Friendly Fertilisers:Slow-release Fertilisers: Slow-release organicfertilisers (e.g., blood & bone or organicseaweed-based fertilisers) will help reducerunoff and maintain soil balance withoutharming surrounding ecosystems.Irrigation Systems:Drip Irrigation: Helps conserve water andreduces the chances of salt buildup. It’sespecially useful in a coastal garden where soilsalinity can be an issue.Soaker Hoses: These are perfect for deliveringwater directly to plant roots and are easy toinstall.Rain Barrels: Collecting rainwater is an eco-friendly solution, especially during dry periods.Garden Tools:Stainless Steel Tools: Coastal environments areharsh on metals, so tools made from stainlesssteel are resistant to rust.Ergonomic Gardening Tools: For the artist whomight spend a lot of time in the garden,ergonomic tools will make tasks like digging orweeding more comfortable.Garden Kneeler & Seat: A dual-purpose tool forboth sitting and kneeling while gardening,ensuring comfort and reducing strain.Continues nex page:1. Plants for a Coastal Temperate GardenSucculents & Coastal Plants: These plants arenot only hardy but also have interestingtextures, colors, and shapes that could inspireartistic work.Kangaroo Paw (Anigozanthos): Unique, withvibrant colours and long-lasting flowers.Sea Lavender (Limonium binervosum): Acoastal perennial with delicate purple orblue flowers.Coastal Banksia (Banksia integrifolia): Astriking native plant with large, spiky flowers.Pigface (Carpobrotus): This succulentspreads quickly and produces colourfulflowers, great for ground cover.Wattle (Acacia species): Known for its brightyellow flowers, it’s a hardy Australian nativethat thrives in coastal areas.Herbs & Edible Plants: These not only look greatbut also offer a sensory experience.Lavender: Aromatic, purple blooms, perfectfor adding fragrance.Rosemary: Hardy and aromatic, great forcoastal gardens.Lemon Myrtle (Backhousia citriodora): Afragrant Australian native that thrives nearthe coast.Basil: Thrives in the warmth of summer andprovides lovely green foliage.Native Ferns & Grasses: These plants can bring alush, texture-rich aesthetic to your garden.Coastal Ferns (e.g., Nephrolepis exaltata):Add greenery and texture to your space.Coastal Saltbush (Atriplex cinerea): A nativeplant tolerant of salty winds.For an artist, incorporating a sensory and visual element into their garden can be both inspiringand relaxing. Here are some garden products and cultivation suggestions tailored to thisenvironment:A R T A L M A N A C 2 0 2 5gardening for an artist

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3. Garden Design Tips for ArtistsTextures & Layers: Layering different plant textures—like the spiky nature of coastal succulents,soft grasses, and bold flowering plants—can provide a rich visual experience. Think about how theinterplay of light and shadows will change throughout the day to create different moods in yourgarden.Colour Palette: Use plants with contrasting colors (like purple lavenders, yellow wattle, and pinkcorrea) to evoke specific feelings. This could inspire your artwork or provide a calming backdrop toyour creative space.Outdoor Studio/Creative Space: If you have the space, consider creating a designated area towork in the garden, such as a shaded corner with a comfortable seat or a small covered gazebowhere you can paint, write, or sketch.Water Features: A small pond or fountain could introduce soothing sounds and reflectivesurfaces, which might inspire your creative work.4. Coastal Garden Maintenance TipsSalt Tolerance: Be mindful of saltwater exposure—if you’re in an area with high winds or salt spray,choose salt-tolerant plants and incorporate windbreaks like hardy shrubs or fences.Wind Protection: Coastal winds can be strong, so provide some shelter using windbreaks (e.g.,hedges, tall grasses, or bamboo screens). These will help protect more delicate plants from beingdamaged.Mulching: Coastal gardens can dry out quickly in summer. Regular mulching around plants canhelp retain moisture and protect the roots from extreme heat.18continuedOutdoor Furniture & Art Supplies:Weatherproof Outdoor Easel: Ifyou enjoy painting or drawingoutdoors, look for a portable easelthat can withstand the elements.You can find some made ofaluminum or treated wood.Outdoor Art Gallery/DisplayStands: Consider adding outdoordisplay stands or creating a galleryspace with framed art in yourgarden for visual inspiration.Concrete or Stone Sculptures:Simple, weathered-lookingsculptures can add an artistictouch to a coastal garden.5. Unique Ideas for Artistic TouchesStone Pathways or Mosaic Tiles: Incorporateyour artistic style by laying mosaic tiles ordesigning stone pathways. These can lead tospecific areas of your garden, like a secret cornerfor inspiration.Garden Walls with Art Installations: If you have awall or fence, consider using it to display your artor the work of local artists. These can create abeautiful visual dialogue with your plants.Ceramic Pots & Sculptures: Pots can be a greatmedium for artistic expression, so experimentwith different textures, colors, and shapes foryour containers.A R T A L M A N A C 2 0 2 5gardening for an artist

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Artists have a unique ability to inspire change and raise awareness about importantissues, including environmental conservation. On the Central Coast of NSW, artists canplay a crucial role in promoting sustainability and protecting the natural beauty of theregion. Here are some ways artists can contribute to saving our environment:19Creating Eco-Friendly ArtArtists can use sustainable materials andeco-friendly practices in their work. Thisincludes using recycled or upcycledmaterials, non-toxic paints, and naturaldyes. By showcasing eco-friendly art, artistscan demonstrate the importance ofsustainability and encourage others toadopt environmentally conscious practices.Raising Awareness Through ArtArt has the power to communicate complexideas and emotions in a way that resonateswith people. Artists can create works thathighlight environmental issues such aspollution, deforestation, and climatechange. Public art installations, exhibitions,and community projects can serve aspowerful platforms for raising awarenessand sparking conversations about the needfor environmental conservation.Collaborating with EnvironmentalOrganisationsArtists can collaborate with localenvironmental organisations to supportconservation efforts. This can includecreating art for fundraising events,participating in community clean-upprojects, or designing educationalmaterials that promote environmentalawareness. By working together, artists andenvironmental organisations can amplifytheir impact and reach a wider audience.Engaging the CommunityArtists can engage the community inenvironmental conservation throughinteractive art projects and workshops. Theseactivities can educate participants aboutenvironmental issues and encourage them totake action. Community art projects thatinvolve planting trees, creating murals, orbuilding sculptures from recycled materialscan foster a sense of collective responsibilityand pride in preserving the local environment.Advocating for Policy ChangeArtists can use their platforms to advocatefor policy changes that supportenvironmental conservation. By raising theirvoices and using their art to highlight theimportance of protecting natural resources,artists can influence public opinion andencourage policymakers to take action.‘Tears of the Turtle’ by Donna GilbertsonA R T A L M A N A C 2 0 2 5artists and environmental conservation

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Tailored for artists, designed to boost creativity, sustainenergy, and inspire through the use of colours, textures, and natural elements.Vibrant Rainbow Smoothie BowlA colourful and energizing breakfast orsnack that feels as creative as a painting.Ingredients:Base:1 frozen banana½ cup frozen mango½ cup frozen mixed berries1 cup almond or coconut milkToppings (choose a mix of these forcolors and textures):Sliced kiwis (green)Blueberries (blue)Raspberries or pomegranateseeds (red)Shredded coconut (white)Chia seeds or granola (crunch)Edible flowers (decorative flair)Instructions:Blend the base ingredients untilsmooth and creamy. Adjust theconsistency with more milk if needed.1.Pour into a bowl and arrange toppingsin a visually appealing way, likelayering colors.2.Enjoy with a spoon while appreciatingyour edible art!3.Golden Energy Bliss BallsPerfect for keeping your energy up duringlong painting sessions.Ingredients:1 cup rolled oats½ cup almond butter or peanut butter2 tbsp honey or maple syrup1 tsp turmeric powder (for golden colorand anti-inflammatory benefits)1 tsp cinnamon¼ cup shredded coconut (optional, forrolling)Instructions:Mix all ingredients in a bowl until wellcombined. Adjust with more nut butter oroats for the right texture.1.Roll into small balls, about the size of agrape.2.Optionally, roll each ball in shreddedcoconut for a finished look.3.Store in an airtight container in the fridgefor up to a week.4.Colorful Artisan Flatbread PizzaA quick and customisable dish that doubles as a canvas for edible art.Ingredients:Base:1 flatbread or naan2 tbsp olive oil1 clove garlic, mincedToppings:Fresh mozzarella (white base)Cherry tomatoes, halved (red)Spinach leaves (green)Yellow bell peppers, thinly sliced (yellow)Red onions, thinly sliced (purple)Fresh basil leavesInstructions:Preheat your oven to 190°C.1.Brush the flatbread with olive oil and sprinklewith minced garlic.2.Layer mozzarella slices across the surface.3.Arrange the toppings to create a colorful,artistic pattern.4.Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheeseis melted and bubbly.5.Garnish with fresh basil leaves beforeserving.6.23recipes for artists

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Instructions:Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, bring the water orvegetable broth to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let itcool.Prepare the Vegetables: While the quinoa is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bellpepper, and red onion. Set aside.Grill the Chicken: Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper. Grill it over medium heatuntil fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar,salt, and pepper.Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, grilled chicken, cherrytomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, feta cheese, parsley, and mint. Drizzle the dressingover the salad and toss gently to combine.Add the Avocado: Top the salad with sliced avocado just before serving.24Ingredients:1 cup quinoa2 cups water or vegetable broth1 grilled chicken breast, sliced1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved1 cucumber, diced1 bell pepper (any color), diced1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped1 avocado, sliced1/4 cup olive oil2 tablespoons lemon juice1 tablespoon balsamic vinegarSalt and pepper to tasteThis colourful quinoa salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients to keep an artist energized and inspired. A R T A L M A N A C 2 0 2 5quinoa salad with grilled chickenart on australia post stamps - songbirds and flora

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25Why Choose a Virtual Gallery?Accessibility: Share your art with anyone,anywhere, without the need for travel or shipping.Cost-Effective: Save on expenses like galleryrentals, framing, and transportation.Interactivity: Create immersive experiences byguiding viewers through your exhibit, addingnarration, or integrating multimedia elements.Flexibility: Update your gallery with new works orrearrange pieces instantly.Platform Spotlight: Artsteps (www.artsteps.com)Artsteps is an intuitive platform for building customvirtual gallery spaces. Whether you’re showcasingpaintings, photography, or sculptures, it provides thetools to design an interactive experience.How It Works:Sign up and create a new project.a.Design your virtual space by selecting frompre-made gallery templates or building onefrom scratch.b.Upload high-resolution images of yourartwork, descriptions, and even audiocommentary.c.Arrange your pieces in the virtual space,simulating a real-world gallery layout.d.Share the experience by generating a link orembedding the gallery on your website orsocial media.e.Pro Tip: Use Artsteps’ guided tour feature to walkvisitors through your exhibition, providing contextand storytelling for your art.The Future Now?As the art world continues to evolve, virtual galleries may become an essential tool for artists to broadentheir reach and make their mark in the digital landscape. By embracing ‘virtual galleries’, you can craft anexhibition that transcends borders and redefine how art is experienced. Start experimenting today and let your art shine in the virtual realm!In the age of technology, artists have an unprecedented opportunity to share their work with a globalaudience, no longer confined to physical spaces. Virtual galleries offer a dynamic, immersive way toshowcase your creativity, connecting with viewers and collectors from around the world. Here’s how youcan get started with popular platforms like Artsteps.A R T A L M A N A C 2 0 2 5Another online virtual gallery that offers freeoptions:Artavita: A free online gallery where artists canconnect, see, and be seen. It offers virtualexhibitions and opportunities to share your work.You can check it out here. www.artavita.com/1.Free Virtual Gallery Tours:Google Arts & Culture: Offers virtual tours offamous museums and galleries around the world,including the Louvre, the British Museum, and theVan Gogh Museum. You can explore a vastcollection of artworks for free.https://artsandculture.google.com/The National Gallery, London: Provides virtualtours and a large collection of high-resolutionimages of their artworks.https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/visiting/virtual-toursThe Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York:Offers a virtual tour of their galleries and access toa wide range of artworks online.https://www.metmuseum.org/art/online-features/met-360-projectThe Smithsonian American Art Museum:Features virtual exhibitions and a comprehensiveonline collection of American art.https://americanart.si.edu/The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), New York:Provides virtual tours and access to a selection oftheir collection online.https://www.moma.org/collection/The Art Institute of Chicago: Offers virtual toursand access to a significant portion of theircollection online.https://www.moma.org/collectionvirtual galleries - the future?

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Produced by Mal Hamilton for and on behalf of Tuggerah Lakes Art Society Inc.Correspondence regarding this publication can be sent to info@digibeta.au© A R T A L M A N A C 2 0 2 5I wanted to sue the airline because they damaged my luggage. When I showed the badlydamaged remains to my lawyer he said ‘You don’t really have much of a case’.I’ll tell you what I love doing more than anything – trying to pack myself into a small suitcase. I can hardly contain myself.I recently bought a wig made entirely from bum hairs but it keeps blowing off.I was in the army once and the sergeant said to me ‘What does surrender mean?’ I said ‘I give up’.I tried starting up a chicken dating agency but it failed. It was a struggle to make hens meet.GrahamCann. 1001 One-Liners and Short Jokes 26Thanks for reading. Here’s to a great 2025.You’re welcome to share.5 of the best