MISSION STATEMENT

To be a centre of excellence, promoting all arts and crafts, to all age groups in Peterborough and surrounding areas, by facilitating exhibitions, workshops, community programs and events.

The Peterborough Regional Art Centre and Gallery is controlled and run by the Peterborough Art Prize Committee Incorporated.

In 2003, local residents Willem and Judith Kempen, came up with the concept of holding an annual Art Prize in Peterborough. In the beginning, and after extensive consultation with members of the District Council of Peterborough, including Mayor Ruth Whittle, Chief Executive Officer, Terry Barnes and Councillor Chris Woodman, a committee of three was formed to kick-start the project.

At a meeting of the District Council of Peterborough during May 2003 a grant of $2000 to the newly formed committee was approved together with assistance for Town Hall hire. Soon after the first meeting, retired art teacher, Heather Parker, joined the committee and has become the other driving force in this community endeavour. The initial committee was made up of Judith Kempen, Willem Kempen, Chris Woodman, Heather Parker, Helen Davies, Sister Julianne Murphy, Vicky Ridley, Gloria Frost and Michelle Jacob. Some of these early helpers have moved away from our area but the core of the committee, are still here.

During 2005, the building, which previously had housed the Peterborough Kindergarten became vacant after a new facility was built at the State Primary School and expressions of interest were asked for by the District Council of Peterborough for the possible use of the vacant building. The Peterborough Art Prize Committee Inc. submitted the successful expression of interest and has leased the building since 2005. This facility provides the Peterborough Art Prize Committee a venue for its monthly meetings, monthly markets, art groups, art classes, workshops and exhibitions.

The outside sheds provide space for the storage of all the display stands and other art and general maintenance equipment. Workshops and small exhibitions by local artists were held regularly. Children’s Art activities were held during school holidays and drawing and sketching classes were held after hours during the school terms.

PETERBOROUGH ART AND CULTURAL FESTIVAL
A group of community minded people promote and present the Peterborough Art and Cultural Festival which runs in conjunction with the Peterborough Art Prize Exhibition each year. The following activities are part of the annual festival which starts at Easter.

  • Quilt and Craft Show
  • History Group Displays
  • Local Markets
  • Collectables
  • Wire Works and Papier Mache
  • Art exhibition.