Art in the Shops will launch this Saturday, May 20. Kim Morris reports on behalf of Thirroul Seaside & Arts Festival

The Thirroul Seaside & Arts Festival is all set to go on the first weekend of June. But before that happens, residents and visitors will get a preview of local art with “Art in the Shops”!

More than 30 Thirroul businesses will support the festival by displaying a local artist’s work in their windows or inside their shop.

Here’s an idea … make a Festival date with a mate. There’s heaps of fun things to do so here’s a few to choose from.

• Date #1: Wander around the shops on both sides of Thirroul. You’ll not only get a taste of what the local vendors offer, you’ll also be able to view a morsel of art at each of the participating businesses. Stop for a coffee or something to eat and continue your artistic journey. Discuss which pieces you like and why. Maybe you’d like to make one your own by purchasing it.
• Date#2: Make a plan to attend the opening of the festival’s Art Show on Friday, 2 June from 7pm at the Thirroul Community Centre. $20 entry each will get you wine, nibblies and first choice in purchasing quality art. You’ll be mingling with the artists themselves and assess the prize-winning entries. All of the art is on sale there too. TIP: If you can’t make it on Friday night, don’t worry. The Art Show continues throughout the weekend. All you need is a gold coin donation for entry.
• Date#3: Décor, plants, gifts, jewellery, crafts … all sorts of market stalls, pony rides, dodgems, skating, carnival rides, food trucks and free live entertainment. That’s what awaits you on Sunday, 4 June from 9am to 3pm at the Thirroul Beach Reserve. This is a sensational day for all the family to enjoy … and it’s free entry.

The Thirroul Seaside & Arts Festival is a project of the Austinmer Thirroul Lions Club. The event raises funds for local charities and people in need. This year $13,300 was donated to both i98 Illawarra Convoy and to Kidzwish.

Supporting and enjoying the festival means you’re doing your bit in helping our community.

So make a date with a mate and get into the spirit of things and join in the fun!

For more info check out thirroulfestival.com.au