Art South Otago Exhibition & Trustpower Art Awards

Art South Otago Exhibition & Trustpower Art Awards

What makes South Otago special?

Apparently it’s the art – seen in abundance last night(November 3) at the Art South Otago 2015 Exhibition and Trustpower Art Awards in Balclutha – which drew in artists, supporters and buyers from as far south as Invercargill, as far west as Wanaka, and as far north as Christchurch.

The Art South Otago 2015 exhibition features 96 pieces from 38 artists, mostly of local talent, in the exhibition opening, although the record number of entries also came in from Gore, Dunedin and Tapanui.

Art South Otago secretary Belinda Mason said the exhibition was a great opportunity for artists to showcase their talent and network with others involved in the South Island’s vibrant art scene.

Pieces ranged in discipline from drawing and painting to pottery and jewellery, and more than 50 locals packed into the Creative Arts Rooms in Clyde St to view it all on opening night. Though some items did sell last night, the 96 display pieces will remain on show until the end of the exhibition this Sunday.

Trustpower community relations manager Graeme Purches spoke briefly before awards were presented by Mason and guest artist Tony Shields, and said he was especially impressed by the professionalism of the artists, and the presentation of the artwork.

“There are a few artists here tonight that were exhibiting 15 years ago when Trustpower first started sponsoring these awards, and I’ve got a few pieces from the Clutha district hanging in my home up north.”

Mason thanked Purches, who is retiring next year, on behalf of her committee, and farewelled him on his last trip to Clutha as a Trustpower representative.

The exhibition in Clyde St, Balclutha will remain open to the public until Sunday (November 8), from 10.30am-4.30pm. A People’s Choice Award is also open for voting until then.

ENDS

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