This is a genuine effort from a small, dedicated arts community.  Tenterfield has been underestimated and is earning its place as one of the best arts communities in the New England North West.  More local artists could have taken advantage of the opportunity the acquisition prize presents.  You have to be in it to win it!  Any serious Tenterfield collection of local art should feature Nye, Sindel and Janet White, but there are also others out there whose names can be added to this list.  It would be interesting to see some of the poetry exhibited as a work of art in itself , such as with calligraphy, collage etc.  Perhaps a particular bush poet could be featured each year.”

“On to the Honourable mentions

1. Emerging Artist – Louise Jenkins. This artist is showing great potential – gaining experience on the brush and retaining an original, imaginative approach which is

becoming her style.

2. Brush with Verse (poem with artwork) – Janet White. The exhibit works well within the context of the exhibition. Moody and meaningful, drawing you in as you wander

past.

3. Original poem by Alan Rose.

4. Interesting example of portraiture – Linda Clutterbuck –  ‘Fay’.

5. Interesting interpretation of a subject – Louise Jenkins – ‘Quest for the Warwick Gold Cup’.

6. Interesting use of a medium (watercolour) – Emily Coelli – ‘Orphan Child’.

7. Interesting 3D exhibit – Janet White – ‘Quantum Sheep’.

8. Classic Australiana – Gay Johnson-Andersen (Man from Snowy River).”

The Regional Painting Prize was awarded to Louise Jenkins for ‘Kilmarnock Car Yard’.

“A clever piece with great movement, spontaneity and originality.  There is thinking outside the square here. Good use of colour and technique.  An unusual subject interpreted well to communicate a narrative.”