OPENING NIGHT I FRIDAY the 6th of DECEMBER, 6pm till 9pm
SHOWING DATES I THURSDAY the 5th of DECEMBER till WEDNESDAY the 11th of DECEMBER, 2024
The New Artists’ Collective Presents “Aesthetes” – The Exploration of Nature through the Designer’s Eye at Leda Gallery Newcastle, NSW
The New Artists' Collective, a growing community of over 80 Newcastle and Hunter-based artists, proudly presents “Aesthetes,” a group exhibition that unites five local artists, each with roots in various design disciplines. This one-week-only exhibition will be held at Leda Gallery from December 5th to 11th, featuring works that merge art and design through an aesthetic sensitive to nature’s beauty.
The exhibition brings together artists Alanya van de Wiel, Amanda O'Bryan, Elise Honeyman, Julie Brondino, and Sophie Seeger, whose backgrounds in architecture, interior design, graphic design, and mural artistry inform their creative expressions. Each artist brings their unique perspective, using colour, particularly green as a unifying design element to bring cohesion to the show. This collective choice reflects nature’s harmony within their diverse styles, inviting viewers to experience nature's beauty through artistic interpretation.
The “Aesthetes” theme aligns with the New Artists’ Collective’s mission, which is to foster meaningful connections and professional growth for artists in the Hunter region. Founded by Alanya van de Wiel and Amanda O’Bryan, the Collective champions collaboration and professional advancement over competition, providing a supportive platform for artists to grow and connect.
“It’s the power of community and the profound impact of having someone who has your back—someone who encourages, believes in you and speaks the language of creativity,” says cofounders Alanya and Amanda. “This Collective is designed to be a space where artists can grow, connect, and share creative experiences.”
Aesthetes Exhibiting Artists:
Alanya van de Wiel – A Newcastle-based artist originally from Melbourne and co-founder of the New Artists’ Collective, Alanya brings her expertise in mural design to abstract works that celebrate movement and self-expression, capturing nature’s fluid beauty as an antidote to the material world.
Amanda O’Bryan – Co-founder of the New Artists’ Collective and an award-winning visual designer, Amanda explores the rhythm and energy of nature through her botanical drawings and paintings. Her work combines abstract and illustrative styles, examining the construct of feminism through flower painting.
Elise Honeyman – As a Newcastle architect and contemporary artist, Elise is inspired by the textures and raw beauty of the Australian landscape. Her pieces reflect a deep respect for the environment, encouraging viewers to connect with and protect the natural world.
Julie Brondino – A graphic designer originally from France, Julie’s abstract works channel her experiences from a two-year journey around Australia. Her art draws on the organic patterns, colours, and textures of the landscape, incorporating elements of spontaneity and intuition.
Sophie Seeger – An interior design consultant with a background in art history and colour theory, Sophie approaches her work with a passion for creative collaboration. Her paintings explore ideas with freeform curiosity, reflecting her versatile design influences.
As the New Artists’ Collective grows, “Aesthetes” exemplifies its mission to uplift professional artists and foster community. The exhibition invites artists and viewers to share an aesthetic experience that offers new perspectives on the beauty of nature.