Countdown to long weekend Art Show

BACCHUS Marsh Rotary Art Show is returning to the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall over the King’s Birthday long weekend for its 54th annual running.

The exhibition gets cracking in style with the Gala Opening Night happening on Friday 5 June with nibbles, champagne, live jazz music and the chance to be among the first to purchase artworks.

Known as the longest-running art show in regional Victoria, the popular event continues throughout the long weekend to Monday 8 June, offering art lovers the chance to admire, and snap up, some original pieces.

“Yes, it’s about raising funds but it’s also that community spirit as well,” Bacchus Marsh Rotary Club president David Wright said.

Rotary Club secretary Russell Dodemaide said it’s the biggest fundraiser the club runs every year.

“It’s also our biggest logistical exercise,” he said.

“We’re expecting to get a couple of thousand people through over the weekend and we typically have between 450 and 650 artworks on display across all media including sculpture and photography.”

The club directs all proceeds raised to a wide range of different projects and causes including the local SES and CFA units.

Money raised also enables the club to support initiatives like men’s and women’s health nights, Wright said.

Through the art show, the Rotarians aim to deliver a positive atmosphere where visitors can enjoy quality pieces entered by creatives from around Australia, with scones and coffee also on offer.

“We have $12,000 in prize money for the artists across eight different categories, and yes, we do have a people’s choice award,” Dodemaide said.

“We are well supported by local businesses.”

This year’s show includes an award especially for artists who live within 20kms of the Bacchus Marsh Post Office.