Creative Foundations, a powerful exhibition running from 16 August to 5 October 2025, honours the vision, resilience and artistic exchange emerging from the iconic Portland Cement Works site – now known as The Foundations, a thriving creative hub, presented at the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre.
Inspired by acclaimed regional sculptor Harrie Fasher, the exhibition celebrates collective creativity, female collaboration, and intergenerational exchange.
The exhibition features works by Harrie Fasher, Kim Fasher, Elisabeth Cummings, TC Overson, Jody Graham, Annabel Mason, and Jennifer Leahy, each artist deeply connected to The Foundations’ studio, residency and foundry programs.
Acts of Refusal, a monumental sculptural installation by sisters Harrie and Kim Fasher. Constructed from 100-year-old concrete footings, steel I-beams and newly cast bronze, the sculptures rise from Portland’s industrial past into a powerful statement of resistance. “These materials refuse to lie down, stand up, succumb or erode,” says Kim Fasher, “They embody the quiet strength of refusal – of standing firm, of reclaiming space and forging new futures.”
The exhibition invites visitors into the shared creative spirit of a place where artists gather daily to create, collaborate, and converse – where community grows as naturally as sculpture and sketch.
Sabrina Roesner, former Artistic Program Leader at Blue Mountains Cultural Centre, described the project as “a celebration of resilience, vision and the transformative power of art in regional NSW.”
The exhibition program includes an opening night event and an exclusive, behind-the-scenes studio tour at The Foundations, Portland; a rare opportunity to explore the creative process with the artist. Harrie Fasher will personally step you through the casting process, sharing insights into each step from mould-making to final form. Bookings are essential and can be made by contacting the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre.
Pictured: Harrie Fasher and Kim Fasher with Frank and The Bird in the studio.
Image Credit: Silversalt Photography
EXHIBITION DETAILS
Creative Foundations
16 August – 5th October 2025
Blue Mountains City Art Gallery, Blue Mountains Cultural Centre, Katoomba NSW
Gallery Hours: Monday–Friday
10am–5pm, Saturday–Sunday 10am–4pm
Entry included with Cultural Centre admission
