“This is one of the most exciting community projects ever seen in Narooma,” said School of Arts spokesperson Laurelle Pacey.

“We wanted councillors and senior staff to have a heads up on our plans to enhance the School of Arts precinct before we lodge our development application.”

The new Narooma Arts Centre, designed by Canberra-based architect ClarkeKeller, is central to the project, she said.

It will front the Princes Highway between the School of Arts Memorial Hall (Kinema) and Volume Plus, and incorporate galleries and studio-workshops.

“It will be a vibrant hub of arts excellence to meet existing and future demand and become a destination in itself and a haven for the arts in the area,” she said.

“It will open up opportunities for everyone, artists and non-artists, and also foster cultural tourism and business.

“We see this benefiting not just the Narooma community but everyone on the Far South Coast for generations to come.”

The demand for more and larger studio-workshops and other creative spaces has long been identified by both the School of Arts and Montague Art & Craft Society, and supported by a consultant’s report to council.

The project also includes minor improvements to the School of Arts Hall (Kinema) to facilitate live performances, including upgrading the downstairs toilets and dressing rooms.

The School of Arts site is owned by the Narooma community and held in trust and managed on the community’s behalf by the School of Arts organisation.

Construction is expected to cost $2-$3m and will be financed by a combination of grants and donations.

The School of Arts organisation is listed on the Register of Cultural Organisations and donations are tax deductible.

More details on the webpage – www.naroomaartscentre.com.au