Clarence Valley Council will receive $60,000 in funding under the NSW Government’s Arts and Cultural Development Program to enable Grafton Regional Gallery to present a mix of exhibitions in 2016, Clarence MP, Chris Gulaptis announced last week. Mr Gulaptis said the funding would to allow the Gallery to continue to offer high quality exhibitions and showcase the gallery’s permanent collection and the work of local regional artists. “The Clarence Valley has a diverse group of local artists and Grafton Regional Gallery does a terrific job in showcasing these works along with other exhibitions including touring, in-house and guest curated. “I am pleased the NSW Government is continuing to provide funding to support the innovative and high quality arts and cultural programs the Gallery it is renowned for,” Mr Gulaptis said. Clarence Valley Mayor, Richie Williamson, said the funding would allow the gallery to continue presenting its diverse and creative range of exhibitions and public programs. “The funding from Arts NSW is invaluable support to the Grafton Regional Gallery, which is a major cultural service of the council,” he said. The gallery’s 2016 program includes programs relating to women artists, rural architecture, popular culture such as wall art, fashion and jewellery, commemorating the 100 years of the WWI, artists in residence and Art Express. “Outreach programs are a highlight with off-site exhibitions and events in local museums, council buildings and school,” Cr Williamson said. “The school program includes a drawing program that links to the gallery’s flagship award, the Jacaranda Acquisitive Drawing Award. “As ever the gallery will be part of the community celebrations of the valley’s festivals including the plunge festival, the July Racing Carnival and the Jacaranda Festival.”