OPAL EVOLUTION

Opal Evolution is grass roots community art and culture initiative in Andamooka, South Australia. Conceived by local artist Leila Day, Opal Evolution responds directly to local aspirations and the profound impact COVID has had on this small regional town in the far north. Leila is working with Artistic Director Paul Gazzola in the development of an annual regional arts festival that builds upon an ongoing series of creative arts and design workshops with a diversity professional artists and the local community.

Whilst focused on Andamooka and its unique opal fields, geological formation and rich palaeontological connections, Opal Evolution aims to become a significant and ongoing opportunity for the far north communities of SA. By promoting cross-community collaboration and the fostering of artistic, cultural, and social engagement, Opal Evolution seeks to reignite and strengthen the bonds between people through a common purpose in direct response to the way that COVID forced them apart.

The first Opal Evolution Festival is set to take place from October 4th to 6th Oct, 2024 and aims to grow in size and scale to become a nationally recognised community arts festival in 2017 when Andamooka hosts the International Opal Symposium.

CURRENT and PAST WORKSHOPS