Fontanelle's Sister Gallery to Open its Doors

Set to open its doors on Saturday, February 18, the space will be directed and curated by local artists Ashleigh D’Antonio and Mia Van den Bos while supported by contemporary arts organisation Fontanelle Gallery and Studios. The site will showcase contemporary artwork from South Australia, interstate and overseas in its two gallery spaces while utilising online and print platforms to exhibit work from a variety of mediums.

“We are particularly interested in the way artists have adapted to the digital age and are using emerging technologies in their practice, and as such Sister will be programming a third gallery space from our website that will feature new internet and video art,” Van den Bos says.

An artist’s impression of the new Sister frontage in the old Fontanelle space

The space will also play host to community events including artist talks, performances, workshops and discussion groups with the aim of creating an inclusive and diverse network of emerging contemporary artists. D’Antonio and Van den Bos hope that the existence of the space and its multi-dimensional programme will contribute to discourse regarding the progression of Australian art in both national and global contexts.

The opening exhibition will showcase work from a range of local artists including Grace Marlow, Alexander Degaris-Boot, Madison Bycroft, Isabella Mahoney (VIC), Nerissa Kyle, Alex Perisic as well as an immersive 360° video work by Gilbert Kemp Attrill displayed on a virtual reality headset. Local beer and wine will be provided on the night to accompany a home-style menu including pies, calzones and fresh salads.

As an entirely not-for-profit organisation, D’Antonio and Van den Bos have set up a GoFundMe campaign to assist with initial start-up costs of the gallery, which are currently coming out of their own pocket.

Donations will be used to polish the concrete floor, undertake minor renovations to the gallery and reception areas, rebrand the front of the premises and fit signage, and purchase tools and equipment to assist artists in installing and de-installing work. The campaign will run until the opening date of the gallery with a variety of prizes on offer for donors.

facebook.com/sistergallerysister

Sister Gallery’s opening night will take place from 6pm on Saturday, February 18 at 26 Sixth Street, Bowden.

Photos: Jonno Revanche