Connection and colour take centre stage

A former Senior Citizens Centre has been transformed into an arts hub, becoming a canvas for local talent and connection in Lorne.

Lorne Community Connect (LCC) has quickly blossomed into a much-loved space, welcoming about 120 people through the doors each month.

“We reinvented the former Senior Citizens Centre into a community arts precinct which aims to encourage people to engage with the arts in all its forms: exhibitions, book launches, plays, workshops and more,” president Lesley Goldsworthy said.

“We also have weekly activities including painting, knitting, patchwork, quilting and bridge, and a monthly book club.”

The large hall has a stage, artist studio, gallery hanging rails, and a commercial kitchen. Lorne Men’s Shed has built mobile hanging units, made possible thanks to a Council grant.

“We’ve been well-supported by Council, which was instrumental in our Artist in Residence (AIR) program,” Lesley said. “A Council COVID-19 recovery grant helped launched the pilot. It was introduced to provide time and a space for artists to develop their work. It also benefits the community, who can attend workshops and open studios.”

Textile artist Anna Reynolds (pictured) was the most recent AIR, with more than 80 people taking in her bright and energetic space in mid- March.

“Our next AIR will be in winter for a couple of weeks,” Lesley said. “It’s just one way Lorne Community Connect enriches the social fabric of the community, alongside the various sporting activities on offer.”

Lorne Community Connect aligns with Council’s goal to acknowledge the value of arts and creativity and nurture their growth.

Interested in utilising LCC or have an idea on how the space can be used? Contact lornecommunityconnect@gmail.com.

Image: Textile artist Anna Reynolds