Example of artworks created by local artists

Local artists from across the Western Downs are encouraged to tap into their creative side and submit their entries for the 2021 Western Downs Regional Artists’ Exhibition, with this year’s theme being Living in the Anthropocene Epoch.

 This year’s exhibition will take place at Lapunyah Art Gallery, Chinchilla, with artists encouraged to submit their entries via the new Western Downs Arts website, www.westerndownsarts.com.au

Council Spokesperson for Community and Cultural Development Councillor Kaye Maguire said the annual exhibition showcased the diverse creative talent in the region, which is a significant contributor to our active, vibrant communities.

“The Western Downs Regional Artists’ Exhibition has come a long way since its first showcase in 2014, and we are very fortunate to be able to celebrate the people that make our region such a colourful and beautiful place, through their talent in the arts and culture space.

“This year marks a transition following the events of 2020 and Global Pandemic. The theme Living in the Anthropocene Epoch aims to explore the unique experience of this time of change within the Western Downs and hopes to foster a collective desire for culture care, respect, and positive action.

Now in its eighth year, the exhibition offers a total prize pool of $3,800 across four Category Prizes (painting, works on paper (including 2D textiles), photography and 3D works), a Young Artist Award, and a People’s Choice Award.

Council is also offering a free regional artwork pickup courier service to ensure artists don’t have to travel far to submit their entries.

Applications for this year’s Western Downs Regional Artists’ Exhibition are now open and close 5pm Friday 6 August 2021.

This year’s Regional Artists Exhibition will take place from Saturday 9 October 2021 at Lapunyah Art Gallery, Chinchilla.

For more information contact Council on 1300 COUNCIL (1300 268 624) or visit https://www.westerndownsarts.com.au/about/

 — Ends —

Media Contact:

Western Downs Regional Council Media Office                                                   07 4679 4265 Claudia Oberholzer | Communication and Marketing Officer                          0427 864 900