Re-think on art prizes

LOCAL artists are being urged to enter the 2015 Southern Downs Regional Artists Exhibition scheduled at Warwick Art Gallery in April this year.
The gallery management committee has spent the past two years re-thinking this biannual opportunity for Southern Downs’ artists with the outcome being more than double the prize money and an exciting new section.
The last exhibition in 2013 was very successful with good entries across three sections including paintings, sculpture and contemporary textiles,“ gallery director Karina Devine said.
“Artist feedback was very positive about the opportunity to exhibit and have their work assessed by a professional judge with the chance to win a cash prize.
“The committee noticed, however, strong interest in the number of photography and drawing entries so they decided to add a new section this year to cater for this.
Helen Harm from Helen Harm Real Estate has partnered with the gallery again to sponsor the new photography and drawing section.
Ms Harn said she was very pleased to be involved in supporting the artistic talents of the area.
“We’ve gone through adverse times over the last few years. It is good to do something positive, adding colour and flair to the community outlook in contrast to the dismal things happening in the world,” she said.
In addition to the new section, the committee had a vision to double the prize money and, with the support of local businesses, is able to offer four $1000 prizes. Warwick Credit Union will sponsor the ever popular painting section.
“We are pleased to make a contribution as we strongly support excellence in the community and artistic endeavor,” Warwick Credit Union chief executive officer Lewis Von Stieglitz said.