Forget social distancing, face masks and anti-bacterial wipes - it's time to frock up and get together for the launch of an art exhibition like no other and we're all invited.
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While the doors are closed at Hunter Artisan Gallery and Cafe, it's still business as usual thanks to owner Jenni Nichols savvy approach to business.
"One of the first sectors hit hardest by the impact of COVID-19 has been the arts and hospitality," Jenni said. As the owner of a small art gallery/cafe which supports both the arts and hospitality, Jenni felt a double whammy.
"In those first couple of days, my head was literally spinning, as I came face to face with the loss of my livelihood.
"When the closures were put in place I knew my workshops and the cafe arm of the business had to go - my main steady income streams. It has also meant planned feature exhibitions had been postponed.
"I spent the first couple of days trying to get my head around the best course of action that I could take for my artists and for myself and slowly, a plan came together of a way I could continue to keep the gallery's spirit alive, until I could reopen."
Rather than depending on the public to come to her, Jenni took the gallery to the public describing it as 'takeaway art.'
She will put together a catalogue of her artists' current works hanging in the gallery that can be accessed on line.
"I can continue to promote our talented creatives and if there is something that interests a purchaser, they can make an appointment, come in to see it and perhaps make a purchase - I can deliver locally," Jenni said.
Plans to keep her business afloat don't end there. Jenni has launched the first of her weekly Virtual Feature Exhibitions which will be held each Monday.
"I will post a word and artists will have a week to submit one piece of art they feel reflects this word. It can be something new or a work they've done previously. To add to the fun element I am also asking them to send a photo/video of themselves frocked up, pretending to be at the opening. I'll put together an opening night video," she said.
Jenni also has plans to deliver regular gatherings at the gallery, like the book club, via a Facetime program.
