Prestigious name for Moruya arts centre

Construction will soon begin on the long-awaited arts centre adjoining Moruya Library and, thanks to a generous donation from international arts philanthropist Basil Sellers, it will be known as the Basil Sellers Exhibition Centre.

Mr Sellers donated $300,000 toward the project, and Eurobodalla Mayor Liz Innes is thrilled he is involved.

“We are so thankful for Mr Sellers’ generous donation and his ongoing support for the arts in this shire,” she said.

“Having our centre associated with Mr Sellers’ integrity and international reputation is such an honour. We are so fortunate to have attracted his ongoing patronage.”

The centre will incorporate a professional-standard, 100-square-metre exhibition space that will host an annual program of local talent and have the capacity to house important touring shows from around the country.

Construction of the centre will be staged and once complete will include meeting spaces for learning and business activities, kitchen facilities, an outdoor performance area and additional parking.

Council anticipates construction of the centre to begin in May. It is hoped its official opening will be held in February 2019 to coincide with the Basil Sellers Art Prize.

The prestigious prize will go state-wide and include the ACT for the first time, offering an increased prizemoney of $20,000 and a Eurobodalla-based prize of $5,000.

As well as Mr Sellers’ generous donation, The Basil Sellers Exhibition Centre is funded with a mix of NSW, Australian Government and Council funding.