Waimate Art Awards Media Release

Waimate Art Awards Media Release

What makes Waimate special?

Apparently it’s the art – seen in abundance last Friday evening (April 24) – which drew in artists, supporters and buyers from as far afield as North Canterbury.

The Waimate Art Society’s 2015 exhibition featured 200 pieces from more than 50 artists, mostly of local talent, in the exhibition opening.

Waimate Art Society president Robert Ireland 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 complex quilting. Though many items sold like hot cakes on opening night, the 200 display pieces will remain on show until the end of the exhibition.

Ireland, also a prize winner in the Trustpower-sponsored oils/acrylics section, was proud to see his partner Cheryl Murney scoop second place in the same category – with first place going to local painter, Wayne Patrick.

Trustpower community relations representative Arielle Monk presented awards alongside Ireland, and said she was especially impressed by the professionalism of the artists, and the presentation of the artwork.

“There were a lot of pieces I would’ve liked to take home myself. To see such a variety of skill sets, from delicate water colour to heavy steampunk-themed mixed media, was amazing.

“I definitely underestimated Waimate’s art scene,” she said. “As a former amateur painter myself, it was great to see the youth coming through to show alongside professionals in such a forum.”

For the first time ever, the Waimate Art Society presented an Emerging Artist Award, which Waimate High School student Lucy O’Sullivan took home for a lead drawing and watercolour painting.

The exhibition at 18 Shearman St, Waimate will remain open to the public until Sunday (May 3), from 10.30am-6.30pm. A People’s Choice Award is also open for voting until then, for a gold coin donation.

ENDS

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