This month marks a significant milestone for Mancini Art Gallery in Deagon as it celebrates its 20th anniversary.
Kim Mancini founded the gallery in July 2004 after consolidating her classes at Seaside Artists Gallery in Redcliffe and three Artrageous community centres into one space.
A single mother of three children at the time, Kim said that with the help of a friend, she transformed a studio into a coffee and giftware shop, gallery and art studio.
“To be honest, I can’t believe it’s been 20 years,” Kim said.
“So many people said it would not last, you can’t make a living as an artist. Well, I guess I am living proof you can. You just have to believe in yourself. For many years my motto and signage on the window said, ‘Believe in yourself, there is nothing you can’t do!’”
After initially focusing on exhibitions and openings, the gallery evolved into a studio art space.
Kim noted many highlights over the past two decades, including hosting the first Bluewater Festival Arts Trail opening, fundraising exhibitions for Angel Flight and the Royal Flying Doctors, and community mural projects.
However, she said the most rewarding aspect had been watching her students succeed as artists in their own right.
“Some of my kids became tattoo artists, one last year was the youngest to be accepted at NIDA in Sydney for costume and set design – he was seven years old when I first started to mentor him in art,” she said.
Recently, Kim has been busy launching new art programs for adults and children and an online selling gallery. She is also working as an art mentor for people on the NDIS.
“I think as a business owner and artist you need to always keep evolving,” she said.
She credits her family and friends, particularly her daughter, for their support on her journey as an artist and business owner.
Celebratory Event
To celebrate the special anniversary, a special event featuring local musician D’Jazz Mose will be held at the gallery for past, present and future community members.
“It is because of this community support that I am still in business,” Kim said. “I am very grateful and proud to be an artist living and working in this community.
“I would like to encourage anyone, but especially women, that it is possible to build and create a business. You just have to find your passion and run with it. If you believe, you will achieve.”
RSVPs to the event are essential. Email kimmanciniart@gmail.com
Mancini Art Gallery 20th Anniversary Event
- Saturday, 20 July, 4pm
- Mancini Art Gallery
- Shop 6/140, Braun Street, Deagon.
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