Welcome to Upstairs Art website.
This website reflects the creativity, energy and enthusiasm found in the Upstairs Art studios and gallery.
Upstairs Art began its artistic activities in July 2007, and was officially opened on Sunday 9th December 2007 by Brad Franks, from the Regional Art Gallery in Muswellbrook in the (Upper) Hunter Valley, News South Wales. The inaugral Upstairs Art Student Exhibtion was also held at the same time, when over 70 works by the students were displayed.
During 2008, Upstairs Art has increased its weekly classes - now held Wedneday mornings and evenings and Thursday mornings. Some 30 students attend the classes over each month.
On Saturday mornings, a children's art class is held in the specially designed downstairs children's art studio.
Artist in residence, Rodney Swansborough takes the classes for the adults and children.
Rodney also regularly conducts workshops throughout the region.
Upstairs Art is operating a mobile art studio throughout the region. Rodney is transporting some 10 easels (for 20 students), backing boards and art supplies in his Mercedes Sprinter Van to rural and remote communities throughout the region, where adults and children have the opportunity to be taught art in their own locality. This is a highly innovative project with enormous support from all levels of government and community groups.
Rodney also provides "artist in residence" programs for schools and adult education programs, which are proving to be very instructive and popular. He travels throughout the region and interstate.
Rodney Swansborough is renowned for his widely acclaimed "chiaroscuro technique" and "chiaroscuro portraiture". He is in high demand for his commissioned portraiture.
The Upstairs Art Gallery exhibits Rodney's work as well as the art works of his many students.
