Opening night photos from the Scarborough Art Show
Scarborough Public School's annual fundraiser launched on Friday night – and Flame photographer Ruth Barbato was there to capture the moment
Scarborough's school spirit sparkled at Friday night's Art Show opener, where generations of artists and art lovers toasted to the launch of the 28th annual fundraiser – all run by parents and volunteers.
Flame photographer Ruth Barbato met a crowd of people proud to be part of the Scarborough Public School community, including former classmates Theo, Callan, Mitchell, Coen and Jonah (pictured above), and musician Peter Winkler (below), who years ago led a workshop where children created the school song they still sing today.
Every year, the exhibition showcases a range of art and crafts, from works by award-winning veterans of the Illawarra art scene to emerging talent – including student creations made as part of the school's ArtSpark program. Once again, more than 150 people are displaying paintings, prints, sculpture, photography, jewellery and ceramics at the 2026 show.
Long-time show supporter Tanya Stubbles (left) and artist Chris Cham.
Artist Holly Eva (left) and speed painter Sarah Rowan.
L to R: Artists Danny Ivanovski and Bianca Shaw.
Artist TS Zaracostas.
Illawarra artists Karen Cooper and Trevor Hall. Photos: Ruth Barbato
In addition to getting the first look at all the artwork, Friday night's crowd enjoyed performances by the Sophia Rose Quartet.
The quartet is led by trumpet player Sophia Hunt, a proud Wiradjuri and Barkindji woman raised on Dharawal country, and a former student at Wollongong High School of the Performing Arts.
Members of the Sophia Rose Quartet. Photo: Ruth Barbato
The Art Show is held in the classrooms and grounds of Scarborough Public School, nestled between the escarpment and the sea. The weekend is family friendly, with activities for children and lawns where kids can run, play or relax. Food, coffee, and cake are on sale, along with art and crafts to browse, and live music; Sunday's line-up features performances by students and parents.
Photos: Ruth Barbato
In her latest article, school principal Emma Hutchinson wrote: "While the weekend is an important fundraiser for our small public school, it has always been about much more than raising money. It is a place to gather, reconnect, discover artists, celebrate creativity and experience the joy that comes from being part of something created collectively."
Scarborough Art Show is open tomorrow (Sunday, October 11) from 10am-3pm. Admission: $5 for adults/$3 concession. Children under 13 enter free of charge. More info on the show's website.
At left: Lydia, Carole and Cathy.
At right: Nicole & Tim Beard. Photos: Ruth Barbato
Photos: Ruth Barbato
