Epenarra Artists Kaye Beasley and Gladys Beasley attended the event along with World Vision’s Art Project Manager, Liz Mullen.

Epenarra Artists are developing skills for self-management with the assistance of World Vision Australia. The project provides training, employment and income in remote areas.

“The Epenarra Artists have made great strides in the past year. Three women are currently working towards a Certificate III in Arts Administration which has not only encouraged artistic growth but also developed their business skills,” Ms. Mullen said.

“The artists have opened their own bank account and have registered themselves as a business. They work on all aspects of the art program from cutting and stretching canvas, to handling money, making sales and working with customers.”

She added that the women have been on “an incredible journey” over the past few years and that their community is very proud of the work they have done.

“The Epenarra Artists have exhibited in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne and have one piece of work in the Cessnock gallery’s Strong Women, Strong Painting, Strong Culture exhibition currently on display,” said Cessnock Regional Art Gallery director Virginia Mitchell.

“The exhibition acknowledges the accomplishments of female aboriginal artists who are using art to keep their culture and communities strong. It includes work by 40 leading Indigenous women painters, fibre artists and print makers from across the Central and Western Deserts.”

Also in attendance at the event were collection owners Deborah Sims and Matt Dickson. Ms. Sims spoke about their passion for indigenous art and its connection to the country.

The exhibition features 50 pieces Ms. Sims and Mr. Dickson have collected since 2008, with one on loan.

Strong Women, Strong Painting, Strong Culture will run at Cessnock Regional Art Gallery until March 27.