Name change for ASPI
The Artists’ Society of Phillip Island or ASPI as it has been called, has existed for 27 years.
ASPIRE is “to yearn For something” or “to hope to do or be something” and that is the new name that the Artists Society of Phillip Island have adopted at their recent annual general meeting.
The Artists’ Society of Phillip Island or ASPI as it has been called, has existed for 27 years.
Life Member Josie Kent has been there from the beginning and recalls it began as a very traditional Art Society which included the Gallery Shop.
ASPI had a home in Cowes and was inclusive of all Arts and included music, sculpture, metal works along with visual art.
However after the amalgamation of Phillip Island into Bass Coast Shire the large space that was shared was lost.
The Society has a history of encouragement, support, and welcoming many. There have been two exhibitions each year.
The exhibitions give members the opportunity to display and sell their work.
The support of a great team of committee and members and the continuing contribution of sponsors allow the celebration of very successful exhibitions each year.
Regular workshops allow members to meet, share ideas, and as a result enduring wonderful friendships and social occasions occur.
In the long years since, ASPI has grown and there has been a longstanding struggle by many to have a home again.
The vision has been to have a place where artists of every bent could work together, meet, share ideas and be creative.
As a result of the persistent work of committees and volunteers, the Bass Coast Shire Council has announced ASPI is to share a space in the old CFA building in Settlement Road.
"We await the refurbishment and then we will excitedly celebrate a home. May it be a happy, inclusive, innovating, encouraging home to all," an ASPIR spokesperson said.
This year after Covid and lockdown cancelled events, the current committee agreed that the “Old Girl” needed a facelift, a new look to go with its new home and so a new name.
"We needed to be more inclusive of all arts and new talents and to stretch our borders outside the island."
So began the journey. A Special General Meeting was held in March and members were encouraged to vote, the numbers ensured there would be a name change.
The new name will not abandon the history of the Society and recognises the wonderful work that has gone before.
But will now be named ASPIR pronounced as “aspire”. In the coming months the website and all other areas will be updated to include the new name.
"Hopefully we can aspire to do this for another 27 years."
