Willoughby Arts Centre

The Willoughby Arts Centre (WAC) is an independent, not-for-profit art centre and workshop facility established in 1961 by the late Joy Ewart and fellow artists to promote and foster appreciation of the creative and visual arts. Located in Sydney’s North Shore, the Centre has grown from humble beginnings into a vibrant arts hub that supports artists and encourages people of all ages to participate in the arts. It offers a welcoming and professionally equipped environment where creativity can flourish.

Mission and Vision

The Willoughby Arts Centre’s mission is to nurture creativity for everyone, not just professional artists, by providing access to quality art education and exhibition opportunities. Its vision is to be a thriving community-driven resource that raises the profile of Willoughby and enriches the cultural life of the region through the visual arts.

Main Objectives

• To promote and foster appreciation of the creative and visual arts.
• To provide high-quality art tuition through a diverse range of classes and workshops.
• To support both emerging and established artists by offering studio space and exhibition opportunities.
• To maintain an inclusive and supportive creative community.
• To sustain the Centre as an independent, self-supporting organisation through community engagement and partnerships.

Benefiting Groups

• Adults, teenagers, and children interested in learning and practising visual arts.
• Emerging and professional artists seeking studio space and exhibition platforms.
• Local community members who engage with the arts through classes, exhibitions, and events.
• Art students aiming to develop skills and compete in local and international art prizes.

Services and Activities

• Over 60 weekly art classes in painting, drawing, ceramics, printmaking, jewellery making, sculpture, and children’s art.
• Workshops and master classes led by highly qualified teaching artists and visiting professionals.
• The Ewart Gallery, which hosts exhibitions featuring works by members, students, teachers, and visiting artists.
• Scholarships and art prizes such as the Joy Ewart Scholarship and the Ewart Art Prize to encourage artistic development.
• Studio hire and community events including fundraising functions and an annual Art Fair Market Day.