Written by April Spadina
As the golden rays of the afternoon sun stream through the arched windows high above the street below, Lee-Ann Handley adds another layer of paint to the walls of her upstairs studio. Over the past few months, Lee-Ann has painstakingly restored the dilapidated heritage building in the heart of Maryborough’s CBD to its former glory, breathing life and love back in to the charming old building.
Lee-Ann is no stranger to living with paint in her hair. As an artist she has had a lifetime of creating works of art across many media, but this is by far the largest blank canvas she has ever undertaken. The two storey building has slowly been transformed into an elegant art gallery and photographic studio, with an upstairs level dedicated to a yoga studio and plans for an artist residency.
At the rear of the gallery a large, light filled space has been specifically designed for holding workshops where Lee-Ann welcomes art tutors to utilise the space so a diverse range of classes can be held by herself and others. Lee-Ann’s dream of being a part of the patchwork of a like-minded community has spurred her passion to unite others in this creative hub and to enhance art and culture in the region.
As an art teacher for over thirty years, Lee-Ann has embraced a lifetime love of art with students across the east coast of Australia. She thrives best when she welcomes others to love and appreciate art to unite and enhance community warmth and kinship.
With Lee-Ann’s dedication to her vision her heart-centred determination will only enhance the unique landscape of the heritage city. She adores the old world magic of Maryborough and the character of her gallery and with her love extending to her fellow artists and the art collective, the Kent Street Studio will become part of the threads that colourfully stitch together the charm of the city.
Visit: 345 Kent St , Maryborough or go to Facebook: /Collectivecreations.com.au