In 1986, sculptor Ian Gentle moved to the coal-mining coastal community of Clifton and set up his studio in the dilapidated School of Arts building. For many young people, Ian was the first artist they had ever met, his famously cluttered studio the first they had ever set foot in. An artist living in a small community can have a ripple effect over generations. A free-spirited educator and an inspiring mentor, Gentle had a huge influence on the young people who came into his wild orbit, instilling in them a deep love of art and culture.

Wollongong Art Gallery also staged two exhibitions and a range of public programs and workshops as part of The Gentle Project.

If you enjoyed the film or the exhibition please support this extraordinary project by Donating here. We continue to seek funds to help cover the costs of borrowing and transporting works from private collectors, the design and production of installations, images, recordings and text to support the exhibition.

Donations also support the exhibition publication, ‘Ian Gentle: The Found Line’ and post-production of the film ‘Gentle’ as well as public forums and events. You can order the book now through the CSA shop.