What's on in the Canberra arts scene, November 18, 2017

Pollock discovered his creativity after having an aneurysm with a small bleed on the brain. As a side effect from the operation he had an episode of hypomania. One of the symptoms of hypomania can be a state of heightened creativity.

Although he had dabbled in sketching and writing before, never had he felt such passion or inspiration. From that moment on, he went into a whirlwind of painting, writing, painting, writing.

After experiencing this, he became fascinated with how our mental state can be one of the most powerful influences on our lives - how those moments of extreme emotions can, and do, shape our lives in so many ways. The main artwork for the exhibition captures his artistic journey from the aneurysm to where he is today, and aims to capture those moments of extreme emotion. Rather than adopting a traditional "gallery hang" Pollock will transform the exhibition space into an environment which parallels his studio - not only full of painting materials but also of the things that give and gave him inspiration - photos, sketches and personal items of importance. Among the studio, his artworks will be displayed - hanging on walls, perched on easels, leaning against walls or in the bin.

Bled runs until November 26. M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Cres, Griffith.

For many years Workshop Bilk in Queanbeyan would celebrate White Christmas, their annual festive season exhibition. This year Bilk Gallery will throw a nostalgic nod to its predecessor, and celebrate six years in Manuka, by hosting its first White Christmas exhibition.

In the trade, a white Christmas is traditionally referred to as a Christmas of diamonds. As a gallery for contemporary glass and metal Bilk pushes the reference further, meaning something special and unique in our lives. While Australia isn't known for having a classic white Christmas either, the gallery might be a great place to cool down while viewing works from several artists.

New collections and pieces from Marian Hosking, Melissa Cameron, Tom Rowney, Jill Hermans, Zoe Brand, Cinnamon Lee, Sean O'Connell, Kath Inglis, Mark Vaarwek, Mio Kuhnen, Larah Nott, Lisa Furno, Jo Hawley, Yioryios Papayioryiou, Rebecca Hinwood and Margaret West make up the exhibition.

White Christmas runs from November 18 to December 24, Bilk Gallery, Palmerston Lane, Manuka.

And while we're in the Christmas spirit, the Canberra Glassworks is offering workshops where you can make your own glass baubles and other decorations. One workshop is held as a one on one with an artist, making hand-blown baubles; the other results in kiln-forned decorations and is suitable for children as young as five

While you're there check out the retail shop, Gather, offering a wide range of bespoke glassware - jewellery, tableware and beautiful artwork from Australia's leading artists working in glass - for Christmas present ideas.

Bookings for the workshops are essential. Head to canberraglassworks.com for more details.

ArtSound FM invites people interested in music of the '50s, '60s and '70s to try their hand at the Name That Tune Music Quiz on Friday, November 24, at 7.30pm at Eastlake Football Club, Kingston.

Quiz master Brian Leonard has planned a night of challenging and interesting questions and the evening will include entertainment by crooner Drew Ashley.

This is a fundraising event for the volunteer-powered radio station who do wonderful things to support the Canberra community. Tables of eight, non-members tickets from $30. Head to

Artsound.fm for more information.

When emerging Sydney based artist Jaimee Paul lost her father earlier this year she chose to channel her heartache into something positive. She has created a body of watercolour paintings and drawings for a solo exhibition entitled All that you've become at Suki & Hugh Gallery.

The exhibition pays homage to Paul's past, her family, her idyllic upbringing in country New Zealand and not least, the man who left an indelible mark on her life. On reflection, she can clearly see her father's passion for animals and nature in herself. Chris Paul was a champion bull rider, dog whisperer and horseman. His daughter is a wildlife warrior. An advocate of art for purpose, Paul's work raises awareness of endangered species, often her chosen subjects.

All that you've become opens on November 18 and runs until December 176 at Suki & Hugh Gallery, 38A Gibraltar Street, Bungendore.

The Nancy Sever Gallery is relocating from Kingston to the Gorman Arts Centre from next week, the team is delighted to be housed in one of Canberra's historical art precincts, where the Canberra Contemporary Art Space is also located.

The first exhibition in the new space will be Michael Taylor's New Paintings from November 29.