Arts Mid North Coast is pleased to announce the mentors supporting artists in the Shared Practice Regional Artist Development Program.
Shared Practice is an 18-month professional development program for emerging and mid-career visual artists living on the Mid North Coast. Ten selected artists will receive tailored mentoring, workshops, networking opportunities and support to develop new work for a final exhibition at Yarrila Arts and Museum in January 2028.
Lead mentors Jeremy Sheehan and Sara Bowen will guide the program, bringing extensive experience across contemporary visual arts, education, collaboration and professional practice.
Jeremy Sheehan is an Australian artist working across object-based, site-specific and ephemeral works, with a practice shaped by collaboration, environmental thinking and material experimentation. Sara Bowen is a Mid North Coast-based visual artist and teacher whose practice spans printmaking, installation, artist books, drawing and painting, and who is passionate about sharing the realities of sustaining a creative career.
They will be joined by mentors Sarah Hill, Nikky Morgan-Smith, Marc Renshaw and Kylie Caldwell, each bringing distinct creative knowledge and regional arts experience.
Sarah Hill is a Macleay Valley-based painter whose work draws on memories of objects and the surrounding landscape. Nikky Morgan-Smith brings over 20 years of practice exploring memory, place and emotional resonance through painting and mixed media. Marc Renshaw is a multidisciplinary artist, educator and director of Big Fig Arts ARI with more than 35 years’ experience creating inclusive arts projects. Kylie Caldwell is a Bundjalung multi-disciplinary artist whose practice spans painting, textiles, weaving and installation, exploring cultural narratives and connection to Country.
Together, the mentors will support participating artists to strengthen their creative practice, build professional confidence and contribute to a collaborative regional arts conversation over the 18-month program.