An inspiring exhibition and joint project between Bundaberg Arts Centre, CQU Bundaberg and two local artists showcased Bundaberg’s history like never before.

The exhibition An Inspirational Life, which ran for the last month at the city’s Arts Centre, told the story of local artists Charles and Sheena Hazzard and their involvement with the arts community of Bundaberg during the last 40 years.

Not only was the Hazzard’s art work on display, visitors had the chance to witness environmental and physical changes throughout the Wide Bay with audio and digital video.

CQU Bundaberg multimedia lecturer Seth Keen transferred the Hazzard’s collection of 8mm film to digital video, showing not just their involvement with art but also Bundaberg landmarks, street processions such as Australia Day and celebrations.

The audio accompanying the digital video, recorded by CQU Bundaberg’s Dr Karl Neuenfeldt and Jonathan Pagliano included an oral history interview with the Hazzards and atmospheric audio recorded at various locations around Bundaberg, in particular places where the Hazzards painted, filmed or photographed.

According to Seth Keen Sugartown is a unique historical 8mm film record of life in Bundaberg.

“It is unusual as the viewer is privy to a local family’s life unfolding over four decades, from the 1950s-80s. This film diary of events is made unique by the filmmakers who in their words have a ‘deadly compulsion’ for artistic creativity,” he said.

“We see not only their family journeying through life but also their long-term commitment to art in the community.

“As painters and model-makers we witness their outdoor painting excursions, exhibitions and float building for the annual festivals. The viewer is left with a vivid impression of life in the Bundaberg region during this era. There is also an opportunity to share in many intimate and familiar moments in the life of Charles and Sheena Hazzard’s family.

The atmospheric audio was recorded in locations such as the seashore at Elliot Heads, the river at Bucca Crossing and the bush in the Bundaberg region. The oral history interview with the Hazzards, was conducted by Dr Karl Neuenfeldt.

“Charles and Sheena’s oral history interview provides an insight into their backgrounds in art and the role of creativity in their paintings, film, photography and handicrafts. They also discuss the many family activities directly connected to making art or sharing their art with the community,” Dr Neuenfeldt said.

Photo: Pictured at the opening night of the An Inspirational Life exhibition at the Bundaberg Arts Centre are from left Seth Keen, Dr Karl Neuenfeldt, Sheena Hazzard and Charles Hazzard.