“And turn right at the next street and it should be there” Tristan, Mink Magazine’s Art Director said. “Do you think that could be it?” I pointed and said grinning at Tristan. In front of us, a little to the right, was a building with huge letters sprawled across the front- ‘Artfocus’.

I noticed the sign first but within two split seconds there was an “Oh My God!” and I think a “Holy sh*t” from Tristan. It was our reaction to the sea of illuminated people and silhouettes we saw gathering inside, and outside, of the Artfocus Gallery in Brookvale, Sydney.

It was the launch of ‘Local Produce’, an event organised by the infamous emerging artist, Carly Casey with the assistance of Artfocus’ resident artists - Anne Bourne and Lyn Hammond.

‘Local Produce 2007’ is the inaugural exhibition hosted by Artfocus Gallery promoting a stellar line up of talented young artists from Sydney’s Northern Beaches. The event provides the young art stars a platform to launch their career and gain exposure. It’s an event where fresh minds can meet and collaborate on creative projects together, and a place where the community can experience original ideas and see first hand the depth of talent in their local area.

’The exhibition featured a new vanguard of exceptionally talented artists in a mash-up of mediums and approaches. Showcasing graphic design, illustration, photography, sculpture, film, street art and graffiti by some of the most exciting, unique, talented and fresh artists from around the area.’ Some of these young inspiring artists included: Mia Taninaka, Alicia Carlil, Ape Seven, Trent Edward, Nick Hall, Phil Harkness, Jaimee Paul, Dan Raymond, Michael Roberts, Lynne Watt, Gus Wheeler and Fiona Wolf and Miss Carly Casey herself.

To be honest, I don’t think I have attended an art exhibition to date where there was such an enormous crowd, let alone such a vibrant buzz in the atmosphere. I think I lapped the building, squeezing my way through the enormous crowd, about five times and on each lap I found something striking to look at.

The building, previously an old car garage, has been re-vamped into a white-walled art gallery with sky lights “because you know how important natural light is” Miss Casey told me.  And with the array of unique artworks at the turn of each corner, it’s really something you ought to see!

“I was worried that people wouldn’t come!” Casey exclaimed. Even Casey’s Mum was surprised at the turnout. “Carly told me she sent out 500 invitations and I said ooh all-righhtt!” Mrs Hammond said.

I can honestly say that from the opening time of 6.30pm until the set finish time 9pm (I highly doubt it finished at this time, I left at about 8:45pm and the gallery was still packed) the launch exhibition of ‘Local Produce’ was a huge success.

For those of you who missed out on the launch, and for those of you who have the slightest interest in art, I highly recommend you remember to make your way down for the next ‘Local Produce’ – next year! You will be inspired, uplifted and left in awe – if not compelled to create something yourself.

I am awaiting the second ‘Local Produce’ with great anticipation. 

Written by Monica Kade