On Saturday, the 29th of March 2025 Imprint Australia had the absolute pleasure of curating and hosting and community arts exhibition in the underground bank vault of VanQ Vintage Clothes Store, Wollongong. Pulling together such an event that deals with themes of s*xual violence, masculinity, and love, has been both extremely challenging and deeply necessary. In an era where funding and space for community-driven art feels more restricted than ever, seeing this project come to life, with the support of so many, reminds us why we strive to keep these conversations visible. And reminds us that art has the power to disrupt, heal and to bring people together in ways nothing else can.
This exhibition was a truly bare representation of the contributing artists souls, so we thank every visitor who engaged whit he work, was receptive to the themes and helped make this possible. Their presence and participation proves that community arts still hold weight. And that our collective story telling is more vital than ever.
This event was ran in collaboration with the absolutely brilliant Monty Colwill from Styled by Lover Boy, whom it was a true pleasure to work with, we are forever grateful for your commitment to your practice, your truth and your story and am so proud we could create something so significant together. To Q from VanQ Vintage Clothing for providing the space and allowing us to host our event, we am so inspired by your genuine passion for creativity and community. To the ever talented bands April and Body Shirt for You - your performances gave an energy to our event like we have truly experienced only a few times in my life.
This event would also not have been possible without Zachary Aldanab from RedBull Australia, for providing us with far too much caffeine. Luke Symons from Howlin’ Wolf Bar Wollongong for providing us with Young Henry’s Beers. And also to Simon from The Wine Hub Wollongong who was far too generous with his support.
