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About Us
Your Local Art Society
Established in 1982, Toukley & Districts Art Society INC. is dedicated to promoting the visual arts on the Central Coast of New South Wales.
Our society operates out of a beautiful Federation Art Gallery and Tourist Information Centre, located in a building owned by the Central Coast Council. The facility provides a space for society meetings, workshops, tutorials, exhibitions, informal paint-ins, a library, and tourist information.
Our doors are open to members and non-members alike, so everyone can enjoy the benefits of our workshops, informal groups, and classes.
Our Progress
When we first gained use of the building, it was relatively small with a large verandah. We were granted permission to enclose the verandah area and obtained a grant of $50,000 from Wyong Shire Council for improvements to the Art Centre.
Thanks to this grant, we were able to create an attractive and functional art centre that opened in September 2000. In August 2007, we commenced further improvements to the gallery, including a workshop area funded entirely by our Society with community funds at a cost of $36,000.
This project was completed in March 2008 with the help of the Wesley Mission Work for the Dole organization. In addition, a mural designed by one of our members was painted on the outer walls, adding to the artistic appeal of the area.
Recent Updates
Our gallery displays our members' artwork and changes every two months. The center is open seven days per week from 10.00am to 4.00pm, and is staffed entirely by volunteers from the society, which has grown to 125 members.
In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, we closed the gallery temporarily from late March to 30 June 2020 and from 26 June 2021 to 31 October 2021. On 1 July 2020, a fresh, new exhibition was opened. Refurbishments to the Silver Playground adjoining the gallery were completed in July 2020, along with a 'gym' area as seen on our home page.
The much larger playground has attracted record numbers of visitors to the park. After a closure over Christmas 2021, we reopened on 10 January 2022 with reduced hours and a reduced kiosk menu with take away only. On 7 February 2022, we returned to normal hours and our usual delightful kiosk menu.
We are excited to welcome you to Toukley & Districts Art Society to experience the beauty of our local artists' work and to participate in our events and activities.
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Our Mission
Building and fostering relationships with individuals, groups and agencies who can assist and support our Society in building a strong and vibrant arts community
Developing the artistic skills of established, emerging and young artists through educational classes, workshops and demonstrations
Operating and maintaining a Community Art Centre that attracts visitors and is respected and valued by the community and its membership
Present professional, high quality art exhibitions for public appreciation and the subsequent sale of artworks on behalf of our members
Undertaking appropriate fund-raising activities to ensure the Society remains a sustainable organisation that can fund its artistic endeavours and activities.