Local artist blows award

Local hinterland glass blower Marc Kalifa has been commissioned by Sunshine Coast Council to design and cast the 2012 Sunshine Coast Australia Day Awards.
Kalifa, who emigrated from Paris in 1974, has been running a hot glass studio from his home in Maleny for more than 20 years.
Kalifa said that he draws inspiration from the landscape around his home.
“I combine the vivid colours of the outback and reef with a classical form of glass blowing and modern tones to create unique artworks,” Kalifa said.
“The Glass House Mountains continue to be slowly eroded by the elements and as a result sand forms and is washed down into the sea lining our picturesque shores.
“It is from sand that glass is made and it is this neat cycle that creates a poetic balance – the glass blown mountain sculptures are being made from former mountains themselves.”
Mayor Bob Abbot said the award design is ideal for such a prestigious occasion as it really encapsulates what the Sunshine Coast is about.
“The seven recipients of the upcoming awards will receive a glass blown sculpture mounted on regionally-sourced iron-bark, giving a wonderful contrast between the glass and the wood.
“It is fitting that the award-winning recipients will receive quality and original Sunshine Coast art to celebrate their achievements,” Cr Abbot said.
The Sunshine Coast Australia Day Awards Ceremony, hosted by Mayor Bob Abbot, will be held on Wednesday 25 January 2012 at Maroochy Baptist Centre, North Buderim.
Nominations for the Awards close on 30 December 2011. For further information or to nominate someone visit council’s Customer Service Centres, the libraries or www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au.
Some of Kalifa’s artwork is currently on display at the fine art gallery Art on Cairncross near Maleny.