Splinter Contemporary Artists had just installed an exhibition of new works titled Lockdown Look Up at Kyabram Town Hall gallery when stage three COVID-19 restrictions were introduced, forcing the gallery's closure.
New group president Kristen Retallick said while it was frustrating the show was only open for two days, members understood the necessity to close.
“It's sort of ironic - the show is about coming out of lockdown, then it was locked down,” Ms Retallick said.
“But there are bigger issues and we understand the need to keep everyone safe,” she said.
In an opening statement, Splinter group members Bev Dowd and Meg Doller said the pandemic had been a time of profound change for group members.
“During the pandemic there was uncertainty and fear. For some, this experience changed us as artists and as people. Our working methods changed and our thought processes changed.
“But even in the dark days, we could take heart as nature blossomed. As humans retreated, as industry and travel diminished, skies were cleaner, waters were cleaner. Animals and birds emerged even onto city streets. A sense of wonder enlivened our souls.
“As we move towards a new normal, our experiences have highlighted what we want to continue doing, being, thinking and saying, into the future,” the statement said.The exhibition includes paintings, ceramics and textiles by 11 artists from across the Goulburn Valley.In the meantime, works from the group's newLockdown Look Up exhibition can be seen on its Facebook page.