Watch this on your iPod - Vodcast available here

Vaughan Wozniak-O'Connor is the Audience Development and Community Engagement Officer at Blacktown Arts Centre.

Blacktown Arts Centre (BAC) is a young and dynamic contemporary multi-arts venue. The Centre has hosted a variety of exhibitions, performances and events since opening in October 2002, providing a hub for art and cultural activities in the heart of Blacktown's CBD. Originally built in the 1950s as an Anglican church, the building was deconsecrated in 1999. Although originally acquired by Blacktown Council as a site for a car park, the Council subsequently worked in partnership with Arts NSW on a capital works program aimed at refurbishing the building as a multi-arts centre. The Blacktown Arts Centre opened to the public in October 2002.

Highlights of the Centre's programming since opening include the development of a national touring exhibition (Regarding Retro), leading regional initiatives (Western Front), the commissioning of new theatrical works (Back Home, the Folding Wife), establishing partnerships with major cultural organisations (Museum of Contemporary Art, Sydney Symphony), the formation of artist networks, opportunities for community participation and the development of a comprehensive workshop series for children and adults.

This talk was shot on Tuesday August 14th as part of the COFA Talks series.