VISITORS can travel to another world at Mount Gambier’s independently operated Alien Art House gallery.
South East artist Matt Sheehy and acclaimed muralist Anthony Hamilton have combined their efforts to launch the unique creative space on Margaret Street, near the popular rail lands precinct and Old Mount Gambier Gaol.
Both artists have always had a passion for all things creative, prompting their collaboration to promote a space for other like-minded individuals.
“There are just not enough places in our local community for the kind of artwork we want to display and see from other people,” Mr Sheehy said.
“We just wanted our own alternative and different space that was a bit more modern contemporary.
“It is hard to actually get your pieces out there when places like the Riddoch Art Gallery and the Main Corner are booked out until around 2020.”
What was originally an office space has been transformed into a four-room gallery filled with bold artwork.
With out of this world, varied and quirky displays, the recently installed exhibition features characters from many art genres.
The concept sparked from a combined exhibition, which prompted the two unique artists to work together.
“I just found a space that was available, had a chat to Anthony and we just went for it – so far so good,” Mr Sheehy said.
“I do not think many people knew about the gallery when it first opened, but if people are interested they will find their way.
“As word starts to travel around town, more and more people start to come through the door.”
The growing collection continues to attract an increasing number of art enthusiasts, with visitors exploring the site at weekends.
Alien Art House does not just showcase the two operators of the gallery, but also features guest artists.
“We get what it’s like not having a space to showcase what you are passionate about, with us previously only having the opportunity to display pieces in cafes and shops,” Mr Sheehy said.
“With each opening we have around 50-80 guests and you could imagine how crowded it gets in such a tight space.
“We would love to expand in the foreseeable future, but our budget is quite tight.”
Art on show at the modern gallery often triggers interesting discussions, with one visitor eyeing a canvas mentioning she always thought humans originated from Mars.
“People really get absorbed in the artwork I guess because it’s different,” Mr Sheehy said.
Mr Hamilton said he was glad to see art promote discussion.
“The conversation is not just ‘what type of tree is that’, it’s more in depth and involved,” he said.
Visitors are welcome to drop in to the gallery between 11am and 4pm from Thursday to Sunday.
The next upcoming art exhibition will feature Jessica Cameron’s unique abstracts, with the launch on October 5 from 6pm to 8pm.
The opening will feature an appearance by Adelaide-based burlesque performer Miss Saskia De Muir.
