Fragments sculpture collective rock into heavy arts scene with Margaret River Heart debut

A group of dedicated stone sculptors are bringing their first public exhibition to fruition at the Margaret River Heart/Nala Bardip Mia next week. The stoneworkers, known collectively as Fragments, are trucking in artwork from their Rosa Brook base where the noisy, messy business of their creative passion has seen them toil for countless hours over the past few years. The group grew out of core members who started working together in 2018, and now boasts 10 members who convene on Monday mornings at long-term resident and fellow sculptor Ross Lonnie’s property. The artists from diverse backgrounds all worked in sculpture as a medium to express life’s experiences, co-ordinator Robyn Collins said. Margaret River Sculpture Association president Martin Ringer said the team project had brought satisfaction to each of the artists. “It is hard to describe the joy that we get from seeing a work of art emerge from a rough piece of stone,” he said. “This is an ancient art and we’re aware of the rich history that we bring to life as we work together.” The group enjoyed an informal and collaborative atmosphere whereby each member contributed knowledge and skills, artist Julie Kinney said. “A long love of stones and rock has led me to our Fragments group, who have encouraged me to play and be creative with our collection of rocks,” she said. “I love our camaraderie as I chip and chisel.” Collecting rocks from as far afield as Donnybrook or Manjimup was also part of the enjoyment, Robyn Collins said. Fragments runs at the Heart from Wednesday, November 27-December 16, with an official opening night on November 29.