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By Ann Brown
 
IT STARTED in 2017 with the launch of Luminous Galleries across the Waterline towns of Coronet Bay, Corinella, Tenby Point, Grantville and Pioneer Bay.
 
Five years later, Coronet Bay still celebrates with several exhibitions each year on the Coronet Bay foreshore, using in-ground lights that were installed as part of the Small Towns Transformation project.
 
It is amazing to think that we are still going. From a handful of people to nearly 30 now. From a managed group to an independent collective of diverse individuals. Our motto seems to have evolved by itself … acceptance of all. I think this has resulted in exhibits where differing styles come together to create the fun of each exhibition.

​Before Covid we met regularly in workshops. During Covid lockdowns we kept going independently. Letterbox drops and texts helped us co-ordinate. We erected the displays during lockdown respites.
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Every school holiday we do a theme. Many of us have grandchildren, so it was natural to include them in our project and also cater for their free time.
 
The only rules we have are the theme and a date and time for assembly and dismantling. This freedom encourages creativity. I am amazed at the hard work and humour that occurs during each assembly and dismantling. Everyone pitches in, at times chatting, at times advising or encouraging. True group work ethics without deliberately arranging for it!

​Our latest Luminous Galleries exhibition, Alice in Wonderland, is on the Coronet Bay foreshore until October 1.

 
You can mingle with much-loved characters and gaze at the most feared. The Queen will shout “Off with their heads”, but no one listens. The Mad Hatter sips tea with his buddies, the sleepy dormouse and the wise march hare. The table is set. Watch the Queen’s guards as they wave their swords. Alice changes her size in this land. “Just eat me” helps her grow and “Just drink me” helps her shrink.
 
Many volunteers from artisans to construction crew contributed their skills. A big thank you to the 25-plus volunteers, all with differing backgrounds and talents coming together as one team to create a magical display. A special welcome to Chris Petrie and his students who have joined us for this project.
Mannequin display, April 2018
Treasured Trash Garden, 2018
Cup Carnival, 2019
Cup Carnival, 2019
Rainbow Garden, 2020
Sponge Garden, 2021
Australia Day, 2022
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Felicia Di Stefano - 4 years ago
Congratulatins on an exciting community project, Ann. It looks good and sounds a lot of fun.
Julie Thomas - 4 years ago
I love coming over to Coronet Bay and seeing the displays. They’re always amazing and I really admire this community for creating them. Thank you and congratulations on this enterprise!
Geoff Ellis - 4 years ago
Great to see that the legacy of "The Edge of Us" is in such capable and creative hands. I'll make sure I get down there ASAP!
Jeannie - 4 years ago
Thrilled that the Small Towns Transformation project and its Luminous Galleries have been so embraced by Coronet Bay and Corinella community.
The fun of creating, then the gallery lights transform them into something magical at night. Night lights and starlight- what could make you feel better?
Congratulations Annie Brown and your team. Wonderful article and wonderful uplifting artwork for your community, by your community.