City of Ryde welcomes new Artist in Residence
Published on 15 November 2024
The City of Ryde has welcomed local painter and mixed media artist Louisa Chan to its beautiful studio space at Westward Cottage in the heart of Ryde.
Louisa was selected from an impressive list of candidates to become Council’s 2024/25 Artist in Residence.
Louisa utilises her art as a transformative language to uplift mental health, inspire and bring healing and engagement across diverse communities.
Louisa’s work explores the intersection of art and neuroscience, particularly focusing on how creativity fosters brain healing and mental well-being. Her aim is to demonstrate the power of art to enhance cognitive function, emotional resilience, and overall mental health, thus contributing to a healthier, more connected community.
Council’s Artist in Residence Program focuses on the development of artists by providing recipients with a spacious studio environment in which to pursue and further extend their art practice. It also provides an opportunity to foster a dialogue about the benefit of art on individuals and the community.
The studio space is located at 8 Turner Street Ryde, not far from Top Ryde City.
On Saturday 7 December, Louisa is presenting Seashell Serenity: A Healing Arts Experience at Westward Cottage from 10.30am-12.00pm.
In this hands-on experience, attendees will explore the therapeutic benefits of nature-inspired artmaking, using seashells to express emotions and reduce stress.
You can find details about the class and how to register here
City of Ryde Mayor Trenton Brown said the Artist in Residence Program was a wonderful example of Council’s ongoing commitment to fostering the work of local artists.
“Last year’s Artist in Residence, urban sketcher Rooi Ping Lim, created some outstanding work and curated a number of well-attended workshops for the community,” he said.
“Louisa has already demonstrated the same enthusiasm and I’m looking forward to seeing the work that her year at Westward Cottage inspires.”