After decades of passionate work and dedication by a group of vision driven human beings, last Saturday saw the opening of the new Lismore Regional Gallery. Located in the old 'C Block', the building begins its latest identity as a place for both local, interstate and now even international art exhibitions. Attended by many local creative people and a few relevant imports, there was much cheering and acknowledgement for key individuals responsible for the amazing new space. If I sound all gushy, it's because I am! Still can't quite believe it has happened after decades of trying, but so grateful that the dream is finally a reality.

Lismore Regional Gallery Opening

The crowds gather.

Lismore Regional Gallery Opening

Mural by Luke Close who just happens to be sitting in the foreground of shot!

Lismore Regional Gallery Opening

A gallery hero, director Brett Adlington, became emotional when acknowledging staff...they have had a hard slog, but have achieved something wonderful...we thank you.

Lismore Regional Gallery Opening

Welcome to country with elders Aunty Thelma, Aunty Dorothy and Uncle Gilbert.

Lismore Regional Gallery Opening Lismore Regional Gallery Opening

Brett, Natalie and the boys beaming and snapped by Catherine Marciniak, part of the massive throng of local photographers covering proceedings.

Lismore Regional Gallery Opening

Arts Northern Rivers also has a new office.

Lismore Regional Gallery Opening

Sarah doing the meet and greet!

Lismore Regional Gallery Opening

Seeing the name of this gallery made me very happy...a wonderful tip of the hat.

Lismore Regional Gallery Opening

And then there are the quiet achievers...we thank you.

Lismore Regional Gallery Opening Lismore Regional Gallery Opening

For those who notice, there are lots of little details left from the old building, including flood heights, nuts, bolts, levels and paraphernalia.

Lismore Regional Gallery Opening

Detail of Leora Simony's Industrial Relations.

Lismore Regional Gallery Opening

Detail of Leora Simony's Industrial Relations.

Lismore Regional Gallery Opening

Detail from the Dreaming Trails Exhibition

Lismore Regional Gallery Opening

Detail of work by Joseph Stanislaus Ostoja-Kotkowski

Lismore Regional Gallery Opening

Loving the patina of old frames as part of the gallery's permanent collection.

Lismore Regional Gallery Opening

More details from the Dreaming Trails Exhibition

Lismore Regional Gallery Opening

Detail of Karla Dicken's artwork as part of the Four Women (I do belong) Double Exhibition

Lismore Regional Gallery Opening

Detail of Nasim Nasr's photography, part of the Four Women (I do belong) Double Exhibition

Lismore Regional Gallery Opening

This photographic series is brilliant...those eyes!

Lismore Regional Gallery Opening

Nose piercing by default. Photographic prints onto butchers paper.

Lismore Regional Gallery Opening

Apologies to all artists who have not been credited. Too much excitement and distraction on my behalf. Will have to go back, research and rectify. Not a chore at all to return to such a fabulous space!