My First Solo Exhibition

To: A lover of art and nature

It was such a wonderful experience to hold my very first solo exhibition as a professional artist at Gallery 11:11. Almost everything sold within the first few hours—I’m still pinching myself! Aside from the fantastic sales, it was probably the best night of my life. Everyone had an amazing time.

Gallery 11:11 is tucked away in North Epping, but it’s a purpose-built space owned by artist Melony Kara Smirniotis. The gallery has incredible natural light and a bright, friendly atmosphere. It’s so popular that Melony’s gallery is currently booked out for exhibitions until 2027!

During my FLOURISH exhibition from October 19-27, there was a continuous stream of visitors. I had the pleasure of meeting so many fascinating, genuinely lovely people—along with all my wonderful friends and family who came to celebrate the launch of my fourth book, FLOURISH: Becoming an Artist, at the exhibition opening. It was an unforgettable evening.

Next week, I’ll be collaborating with fellow artists at the Central Coast Festival of Creativity for a two-week exhibition showcasing local talent from all over the Central Coast. This exhibition, held at the Red Tree Theatre in Wyong, has been a favorite annual event (previously known as Art at Work), and it’s always a big hit with locals. There’s also a great gift shop where you can do your Christmas shopping, with artists on hand to guide you through and make you feel welcome. It’s sure to be a fun and rewarding experience, and I hope you can make time to visit and see the exhibition and the gift shop over the two weeks.

The opening night is Thursday, November 14th, and it’s always full of excitement, early purchases of fine art, and fantastic local entertainment. Here's to a very creative November 2024! I’m so grateful to be part of these wonderful exhibitions.

During my FLOURISH exhibition from October 19-27, there was a continuous stream of visitors. I had the pleasure of meeting so many fascinating, genuinely lovely people—along with all my wonderful friends and family who came to celebrate the launch of my fourth book, FLOURISH: Becoming an Artist, at the exhibition opening. It was an unforgettable evening.

People were incredibly appreciative of my work. They were fascinated by my use of Wild Bush Inks (organic inks made from botanicals from my garden and the surrounding bushland), and many enjoyed searching for the embroidery embellishments on my fine art. The poetry I wrote for each piece was also well received—more so than I had anticipated. The music, professional prints, and my Flourish Journal added to the rich narrative of the FLOURISH EXHIBITION, making it a complete experience.

I was so fortunate to have the brilliant support of local ceramicist Buff Siestema, who runs workshops at The Worker Shed in York St, Epping, and the delicious food provided by Rockin’ Road. I’m now completely hooked on their pistachio rocky road!

All too soon, the exhibition came to a close, and now that the dust has settled, I can only feel immense gratitude toward the art collectors, friends, family, and fellow artists who attended and made the event so special.

Love,

Alison Mulvaney