And whether you are a budding artist, enjoy art, or infrequently like to take a look at it, this is an initiative worth supporting. 

It’s a space where local people can showcase their work to the public and possibly sell it to a loving owner.

Without these kind of places a lot of local art remains unseen and unsold. 

With the high level of talent that is coming out of the shadows across the city, it’s evident that cannot keep happening.

We are very fortunate to have a wonderful Maitland Regional Art Gallery that attracts high-level art and brings a lot of prestigious exhibitions to the city that are normally shown in places like Sydney.

We also have world class art on show during the year at Morpeth Art Gallery, which is something a lot of us wouldn’t otherwise get the opportunity to see.

The Hunter Artisan Gallery and Cafe is the missing link we have been craving. 

Imagine if Sonja Elise’s work didn’t have a place to be shown.What a loss that would be for her and the public.

She is an incredible role model for fighting back from adversity and putting the right amount of energy back into herself to aid her recovery.

And it’s been a huge fight for her. She has battled Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar and borderline personality disorder and yet she has created incredible works that will no doubt inspire others to keep reaching for their own goals. 

She has openly said art has saved her life and helped her change her thinking patterns from negative to positive.

When she started painting the good things in life she realised how many blessings she already had.

I think we can all take something from her journey.

Ms Elise is one of many talented artists and creators who will showcase their work at the gallery, and in the cafe.

It’s taken artist and entrepreneur Jenni Nichols  who noticed the buzzing local art scene to make a move and create this venture. It’s a project that’s feeding her soul and combining her love of art and food. 

That’s one of the things I love about Maitland – it has a strong history of getting things done and helping to give people a platform to spread their message.