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Exhibition Opening Fires The ImaginationLast Friday’s exhibition opening gala performance at the Latrobe Regional Gallery raised the roof, using a dramatic dark carnival theme to promote Erwin Olaf’s ‘Elegance and Perversity’ exhibition. By Latrobe City - 8th May 2007 - Back to News Gallery Director, Jacqui Hemsley said that the decadent opening was designed and developed by the Latrobe Regional Gallery’s Young Ambassadors, and set high precedents for all others to follow.
"The opening was always going to be eye-catching and amongst a sea of onlookers, one figure stood tall. Shaun Gardner, a local performance artist, was the first of the performers on the night to make an appearance. Towering over the masses on stilts, and looking deathly composed, he lured in the crowd with promises of ‘dark carnival’, ‘stale popcorn’, ’geriatric erotica’, and ‘come see the giant black mambo, escaped form it’s Gucci bag’. Only those who have seen the exhibition, will understand this reference," Ms Hemsley explained.
"The MC for the evening, local performer Dan Clancy, was another crowd favourite. In his gold hotpants and fishnets, complete with top hat and riding crop, he was certainly a sight to be seen.
"But the shock tactics had only just begun. Winners of the 2007 Battle of the Bands, local heavy metal group, ‘Bleeding Sadist’ transformed the Gallery’s foyer into a mosh pit, and complemented Brian Hillbrick the fire twirler, who mesmerised crowds," Ms Hemsley added.
"The raffle included generous donations from local businesses and winners were also chosen for ‘best dressed’. It was refreshing to see such artistic individuals grace our presence," Ms Hemsley concluded.
‘Erwin Olaf: Elegance and Perversity’ will run until Sunday 10 June. Some imagery in the exhibition may offend. The exhibition has a restricted access to those aged 15 years and over.
The Latrobe Regional Gallery is open 7 days, Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm, Saturday and Sunday 11am to 4pm. Admission is free.
For more information, contact the gallery on 5128 5700, fax 5128 5706 or email lrg@latrobe.vic.gov.au.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com

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