Ms Anderson is a professional artist who has exhibited her work in and around Sydney for almost 30 years.
She relocated to Deniliquin in January 2023 and has quickly established herself as part of the local arts community, running community workshops and having her work recognised by the judges at this year’s Deniliquin Easter Art Show.
Moving to Deniliquin has provided new inspiration for Ms Anderson.
“After more than a decade living and working on the Hawkesbury River, it has been fascinating to explore and capture such a different river environment,” she said.
“I’m really enjoying finding new ways to respond to the landscape and community in all aspects of my art, from photographing new birds to collecting local clay.
“It’s an ongoing adventure.”
Ms Anderson’s exhibition will include both old and new works, with a mix of ceramics, printmaking, illustration and photography.
“Curiosity drives me, and my art is a way to make sense of the world,” Ms Anderson said.
“This exhibition is a little bit playful and I hope it gives locals, young and old, a different perspective of their local environment.”
ERAS president Lou Graham said the group is thrilled to open the new space with Mel Anderson’s artwork.
“We are so lucky to have an artist of Mel’s calibre calling Deniliquin home,” Mrs Graham said.
“This exhibition will give everyone the opportunity to not only see her work, but to get a feel of our new space.”
Sole occupancy of the Multi Arts Centre was granted to ERAS by Edward River Council in July this year.
The group will also have shared occupancy of the adjacent Multi Arts Hall - often referred to as the Sunday school hall.
The peppercorn lease agreement with Edward River Council will be for one year to begin with, with further negotiations for long term utilisation to be brought to the new-look council.
The gallery is open from 10am to 3pm Wednesday to Saturday.
The Mel Anderson Exhibition will officially open with a free party on Thursday from 5pm at the gallery - at 58 Cressy St, Deniliquin.
The exhibition will run through until October 31.
Ms Anderson will be conducting clay handbuilding workshops on Saturdays throughout the exhibition.
To find out more, visit edwardriverartsociety.com.
