Simultaneous Art Exhibition 2024 a success

Lutheran artists from across Australia have once again prepared a visual feast for the senses in the 2024 LCANZ Simultaneous Art Exhibition.

Following this year’s theme, Tree of Life, dozens of groups participated in this cherished event. Artists of all levels of experience were involved, from Chinese to Finnish congregations, primary students to aged care residents, regional to suburban churches.

Some of the participating groups included:

This year’s exhibition marks the fourth churchwide art showcase, following successful exhibitions in 2021, 2022 and 2023.

Comprised of media including sculpture, mosaics, watercolours, acrylic, print, photography, drawing and mixed media, the artworks were showcased in congregations, schools, halls and open-air exhibits for the community to enjoy.

Immanuel Lutheran Church (SA) also displayed tinned fruits, cereals and pulses donated by members to be gifted to Lutheran Care and distributed to those in need.

The year 7 class at Good Shepherd College (Vic) featured a series of drawings on the theme of the Australian Red Gum, which were compiled and assembled in tall lengths to symbolise tree trunks. The life of the Red Gum, from seed to giant, resembles the mustard seed, and provides shelter for birdlife and sheep. It can even heal itself. It is a constant reminder to grow and flourish in the presence of Jesus. The artwork was featured in the windows of the college chapel.

Many exhibitions came from ‘artists in residence’ at Aged Care centres across the country. Residents at Orana Aged Care explored the theme over a series of conversations and visual art workshops. The result – over 20 pieces of varying expressions – signify the people, experiences and emotions that make up their lives. Other paintings of forests illustrate how our lives are comprised of interconnecting relationships with others, and an intertwined spirituality.

Artist Margey Knapp contributed multi-media artwork, and this beautiful poem:

What a wonder!
An ancient tree, a quiet sentinel for life.
Storms have raged, droughts have come
fires have circled round,
always the relentless
burning sun.
Yet,
enduring.
In regal defiance of
the harsh Australian reality,
the providential beauty stands as a
testament to Creator, blessing landscape
and enhancing our ‘wonder full’ life.

– Margey Knapp, 2024

We thank all the 2024 artists and look forward to next year’s Simultaneous Art Exhibition.