A local’s guide to creative Coffs Coast
Local creative leader Alyson Pearson, more commonly known as Alykat Creative is a contemporary artist and designer with a large following on the Coffs Coast. Having grown up on the Coffs Coast, Aly takes much of her creative inspiration from her local surroundings and childhood memories of days spent at the beach or on the headland. Alyson is an integral part of the vibrant creative community in Coffs, with a vision to create a sense of community and creative space.
Coffs for Creative Inspiration – the perfect way to spend a day
Alyson’s favourite way to spend a day starts with an early morning walk up Muttonbird Island for views that never disappoint. The stillness, combined with the ocean views and stunning backdrop of the Great Dividing Range provide an opportunity to free the mind and allow it to flow with thoughts and creative ideas, inspiring positivity and a connection with nature – great for an Australiana loving artist like Aly.
After grabbing a coffee from Old Johns at the Jetty, she then recommends a visit to The Mudroom or Kaleidoscope for a browse of the latest creations from local artists and makers and the opportunity to pick up that one-of-a-kind item you’ve been searching for, as well as the likelihood of being able to chat with a local creator and share creative inspirations.
Back in the Coffs CBD, Happy Frog is the perfect spot for a delicious and healthy vegetarian lunch, important fuel for busy artists and those who have enjoyed or are about to enjoy a stroll of the street art Coffs is becoming known for, starting only a few metres away.
For something a little different, the Coffs Creek loop walk is a personal favourite of Alysons. Having grown up opposite the creek, it is a place of sanctuary and inspiration, plus there are public artworks to be spotted along the way.
Where you’ll find Alyson’s Artwork
Alyson is known for her playful artwork, often with a focus on modern Australiana and whimsical animals. Her art practice involves traditional pen drawings combined with love of play in Photoshop where organic and traditional elements meet photography and digital components, evoking a sense of happy-wonder.
Alyson’s latest mural project ‘Adventures of Little MuttonBird Island’ is an 8 metre installation in the corridors of the Paediatric Emergency Department at Coffs Hospital. A calming, uplifting and playful scene aimed to inspire the imagination of young patients and their visitors.
Alyson’s artwork can be found throughout the region and is available for purchase at local creative outlets Kaleidoscope and The Mudroom.
Coffs CBD – Discover this Creative Community Hub
Kaleidoscope found in Coffs Central is another within the CBD. Located in Coffs Central it is home to a community of Coffs Coast makers and creatives. A unique retail outlet and gallery celebrating local artists products, supported by a wide range of exhibitions and creative art events including lino printing, bookbinding, crafting and even chocolate making.
In the City Centre you’ll find Haus of Clay, a budding ceramicist’s dream. Offering classes in handbuilding and wheel throwing for beginners through to studio and firing services for advanced potters. They even run holiday and after-school workshops for kids to get their hands muddy with clay.
The Mudroom is another local art gem, selling creative florals and unique homewares and gifts. They often run events from claymaking to woodwork, championing creativity in the young through to the young-at-heart.
The newly opened Yarrila Place, combines the arts with people, technology and culture to create a vibrant community hub. Bringing an additional feature to the Coffs CBD, Yarrila Place is home to the YAM(Yarrila Arts and Museum) and Library. It features a Gumbaynggirr Art Trial, featuring six artworks – one from each Gumbaynggirr Clan group.
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