Local artists excited to prepare for annual exhibition

Western Downs artists are being urged to share their creative prowess with the wider region as part of the 2020 Western Downs Regional Artists’ exhibition, with this year’s exhibition given an online platform for the very first time.  

The annual creative event is a highlight for the region’s arts community, and this year focuses on the theme ‘Phoenix’ via a new digital approach.  

2020 marks the exhibition’s seventh year, however it will be the first year to bring it online, beginning with online entries open via Western Downs Regional Council’s website. 

Council Spokesperson for Community and Cultural Development, Councillor Kaye Maguire is looking forward to seeing the exhibition both in person and online this year. 

“Our strong arts culture is a big part of the active vibrant communities on the Western Downs and I’m looking forward to seeing entries from participants right across the region,” Cr Maguire said. 

“In the middle of multiple disaster seasons, and an unfolding pandemic, I’m sure our communities will use the ‘Phoenix‘ theme to show us how well they can overcome challenging times. 

“To support our local artists through the fallout of the coronavirus pandemic, we opened entries four months ago to encourage people to continue practicing their creative passions at home. 

“There’s still time to get your entries in and I know there is definitely a lot of talent across our region so I encourage our local artists to enter before next month – I can’t wait to see what they produce.” 

With entries closing on Friday 25 September, artists across the region are being encouraged to submit their entries for the chance to claim category prizes across four mediums (painting, works on paper, photography and 3D work) as well as the Young Artist Award and People’s Choice. 

Chinchilla artist Christopher Rigg has entered the competition many times and is excited to once again showcase his work in this year’s exhibition. 

“I first placed an entry in 2016 and received highly commended for that year – it was quite rewarding to be recognised in this way and it helped motivate me towards making more work,” he said. 

“I would absolutely encourage regional artists to participate in this exhibition as it gets you out of your comfort zone. 

“It can be an isolating experience creating art, alone in your studio, and a competition like this can help you connect with other likeminded creatives in our locality.” 

The exhibition prize pool totals $3000 this year including People’s Choice, sponsored by Murray’s Art & Framing Toowoomba (providing a $200 voucher) who came on board last year as an ongoing sponsor.  

To enter the 2020 Western Downs Regional Artists’ Exhibition visit Council’s website at www.wdrc.qld.gov.au or contact Council on 1300 COUNCIL (1300 268 624). 

Western Downs Regional Council Media Office 07 4679 4265