Kiama artist Helen Pain, a former professional singer and music educator, is launching her debut solo exhibition "Light Up My World" at Kiama's Old Fire Station gallery from June 27 to July 2. The exhibition features paintings that reflect her musical background, emphasizing rhythm, movement, and flow rather than literal representation. The opening event will include a live performance by the Bonaira Ukulele Group, in which Pain herself performs.
This exhibition matters because it highlights the growing trend of artists transitioning from other creative disciplines later in life, demonstrating how cross-disciplinary experience can enrich visual art. It also underscores the importance of local community galleries in providing platforms for emerging artists and fostering connections between music and visual art, particularly in regional areas like Kiama.