Call out for artists

Excitement is building for this year’s Wattle Range Art Exhibition, with judges announced and entries open until November 25.

Art Gallery of South Australia’s Emma Fey FGLF and renowned oil and watercolour artist Herman Pekel will be judging the 2023 entries, with Wattle Range Council manager libraries and gallery Janice Nitschke confirming entries have already been received.

“Both (Emma and Herman) will bring their own expertise to the judging panel,” Mrs Nitschke said.

“Emma is a respected leader in the visual arts sector in South Australia, she has a passion for visual art and artists.

“Emma in her roles has always been focused on her connection to the artistic community and she has judged many awards and gained much respect for her commentary and knowledge of the arts.”

Mrs Nitschke was also excited to have the multi-award winning Herman Pekel casting his eye over the local talent.

“He has experimented with abstract expressionism and is well known for his oils and watercolours,” Mrs Nitschke said.

“Herman is an artist of energy and enthusiasm; able to see a painting in almost any subject matter and capable of producing award-winning work in oil, watercolour or gouache.

“Environmental issues are a great concern to Herman and his love of the landscape is reflected in almost everything he paints.

“The scope of Herman’s work ranges from dynamic industrial scenery to soft, draped interiors and broad Australian landscapes, which indicates the creatively fearless nature of this unique artist.”

Last year’s competition attracted 179 entries with Penola High School and St Anthony’s Primary School exhibiting in the school section.

The 2023 exhibition will be opened on Friday, December 1.

Wattle Range Mayor Des Noll made the last of the presentations for the 2022 Wattle Range Art Exhibition with Michael Piper awarded the People’s Choice Award for his beautiful oil on canvas depiction of Southend, titled ‘Silvergulls’.

“Art makes a vibrant community and we have art in abundance across Wattle Range,” Mayor Noll said.

“We are all looking forward to another exhibition of great diversity and innovation.”