Art show paints the picture

By Kate Taylor

Even if you don’t consider yourself to be an oil painting, you could win an oil portrait at this year’s Bacchus Marsh Rotary art show.

Taking place this coming June long weekend, the event, now in its 47th year, is bigger and better than ever before.

“This year the usual venue of the Public Hall has been reinvigorated with an extensive array of upgrades and improvements, including new kitchen and toilet facilities,” explained Rotary Art Show Chairman Peter Shilton.

“There is the very popular Gala Opening Night on Friday 9 June, which ensures that this popular event starts with a bang.”

Mr Shilton said that while the Art Show and Sale is essentially a Rotary fundraiser, it is also a wonderful opportunity for local businesses to network and local people to catch up, as they enjoy viewing and purchasing artworks whilst sipping wine and eating delicious canapes.

Many local businesses have supported and sponsored the Art Show over the 47 years, and have helped ensure its longevity.

At the end of the day, or night, it comes down to the art.

“The artworks for sale are many (about 550 pieces this year) and varied, both in price and style.

“This year, as something a little different, at the Gala Opening Night we will be auctioning the opportunity for someone to sit for a portrait on Saturday June 10 by well- known realist painter, Gregory R Smith, who has won “Best Oil Painting in Show” at Bacchus Marsh on three previous occasions. He has also won “Best in Show” at both Camberwell and Royal Melbourne Art Shows, is an Honorary Life Member of the Victorian Artist’s Society, and has held over 30 solo exhibitions.

This year’s judge for the Art Show is Rebecca Edwards. She is a PhD candidate in Art History at the University of Melbourne and an Assistant Curator (Australian Painting, Sculpture and Decorative Arts before 1980) of the National Gallery of Victoria.

Prize money of $7,600 is available and is spread over nine categories. There is a dedicated photography section, and although art works are mainly in the form of paintings, collages, sculpture and ceramics are also included.

The cost to visit the Art Show is $35 on the Gala Opening Night with music, food and drink inclusive and the opportunity to be the first to purchase art. Public viewing and sales times are Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 June 10am-5pm; Monday 12 June 10am-4pm. Cost is Adults $8.