The foyer of Cessnock City Library has been lit up with colour as part of a month-long display by the students of Casscar Creative Art Studio.
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Portraits, landscapes and paper cranes of all shapes and sizes line the hall, inspired by this year’s Book Week theme “Books Light Up Our World”.
The works were completed by the 40 students aged five to 18 who attend Casscar Creative Art Studio classes led by local educator and artist Sandii Walker.
The studio and the library have an ongoing relationship, with the library displaying works from Casscar for over 10 years.
The students of the gallery made regular trips to the library for research and inspiration for their pieces, which have been accumulated since the beginning of term one this year.
“This is living proof of how books influence people’s lives,” library services co-ordinator Rose-Marie Walters said.
The relationship is mutually beneficial too, the library enjoying a bright and creative foyer, and the students having the chance to show their work to the public.
“It’s a very good partnership,” library children’s services officer Sandy Ryan said.
“It makes our foyer look gorgeous for a month.”
“It’s inviting, it’s eye-catching,” Ms. Walters added.
“Everyone walking in appreciates it.”
Ms. Walker said the library has been wonderful in their support of the project.
“This gives them [the students] a taste of what it is like to be in that artistic realm,” she said.
“It makes them feel a part of the community and gives them a sense of space.”
Ms. Walker said they always receive lovely feedback from the public about the works, which is great for the kids’ confidence.
“It makes them want to achieve better things for themselves,” she said.