The works of Hill End's inaugural French Artist in Residence are set to comprise one of the brand new exhibitions scheduled to launch at the Bathurst Regional Art Gallery [BRAG] tonight.
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Parisian artist Fabrice Cazenave participated in a six-week residency at Murray's Cottage last year, and his exhibition, entitled The Garden of Shadows, examines the Hill End landscape from a sensory perspective.
"When I arrived in Hill End, the first thing I noticed was how the light crafted some rather unique shadows throughout the landscape," Mr Cazenave said.
"The light in Australia possesses more intensity than that in France, and it allows for the shadows to shape the environment in a more refined way."
Mr Cazenave does much of his drawing with his eyes closed, and says the method allows him to focus his senses and engage in a spiritual connection with the world around him.
"Through drawing with my eyes closed, I feel a greater connection to the environment around me," he said.
Mr Cazenave's exhibition features 30 artworks that portray selections of the Hill End landscape in ways few have considered before.
BRAG director Sarah Gurich said the exhibition highlights the strength of the French Artist in Residence program developed between the gallery and the French Consulate in Sydney.
"To have a program allowing international artists to work in the Central West only enhances the region's status as a vibrant cultural hub," Ms Gurich said.
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Along with Mr Cazenave's exhibition, BRAG will also be debuting EuroVisions: Contemporary Art from the Golding Collection and ARTEXPRESS.
"EuroVisions features cutting-edge, contemporary art from some of the biggest names on the European art scene," Ms Gurich said.
"Meanwhile, ARTEXPRESS showcases the fine work of students who participated in last year's Higher School Certificate."
Ms Gurich said the combination of the three new exhibitions will provide a unique cultural experience for the Bathurst community.
"There's a big appetite for culture and the arts in Bathurst, and it's a special feeling to bring cherished works of art to the region," she said.
The launch event for the three exhibitions will commence from 6pm.
