In a culture that values youth and the latest trends, Platform Gallery in Katoomba is bucking the trend by curating an exhibition exclusively containing the work of women over 60.
Opening on Saturday, February 1, the show features 20 female artists from around Australia, including many local favourites.
"It's important for us as a feminist gallery to ensure our mission includes all women. Wise, our exhibition for women over 60, aims to showcase the work of women who, despite their wealth of experience, are often invisible in the art world.
"This invisibility is also reflected in the attitude of society at large, and I want to do something about that," said Platform curator Kelly Heylen.
"It's telling that we received dozens of applications within days from women all around the country. There's clearly a need for more shows like this one, with opportunities for older women few and far between."
Wise features a mixture of works including painting, illustration collage, textiles and sculpture. Themes range from abstract landscape to political commentary to tackling the most pressing issue of our time, climate change.
"This is an opportunity not only for the artists but for the community to slow down, pay attention and learn from those who came before them," said Heylen. "I hope people will come to see this exhibition ready to see, touch and hear these women's stories.
"We all have so much to learn from their experience, and I'm delighted to be able to put on a show that celebrates the achievements and creative talent of older women."
The exhibition runs from January 31-February 17, with the opening celebration at 2pm on Saturday, February 1 at Platform Gallery, 194 Katoomba St.
