The region's top creative minds have been recognised with the announcement of the winners of the 2024 Western Downs Regional Artists' Exhibition
The exhibition at the Lapunyah Art Gallery in Chinchilla on Saturday, 21 September, attracted over 100 attendees and featured 53 artworks by 39 local artists across various mediums.
This year's theme, 'Rural Realities', refers to the state of things as they exist: from the physical environment, societal ties between people, to the emotional challenges and victories that are endured, there are many different realities.
As residents of the predominately rural Western Downs Region, this theme invited artists to reflect on their own lives and how their rural context shapes their reality.
Western Downs Regional Council Spokesperson for Community and Cultural Development Councillor Peter Saxelby said this year's theme aimed to challenge entrants and all had delivered high quality works.
"It's an absolute pleasure to see the diverse talents of our local artists. Though the bar was set high, the artists delivered works that are both timely and engaging," Cr Saxelby said.
"Our Regional Artists' Exhibition is a renowned event across our region and it's all about showcasing the people that make our region vibrant and inclusive.
"The exhibition opening was made possible due to the hard work of our hosts. Thank you to everyone at Chinchilla's Lapunyah Art Gallery for such a wonderful evening."
This annual exhibition was proudly presented by Western Downs Regional Council and supported by the Western Downs Galleries Committee represented by Lapunyah Art Gallery, Dogwood Crossing, Miles and Gallery 107 Dalby. Exhibition support material was sponsored by Snap Print Toowoomba and Sundown Signs. Prizes were sponsored by Chinchilla RSL Memorial Club, Trina Martin, KOKOrdination, Keatings Hardware, Richard Makin Contracting, Origin Energy, Murray's Art and Framing, and Western Downs Regional Council, with trophies donated by the Lapunyah Art Gallery.
2024 Regional Artists' Exhibition Winners: Rural Realities
Painting Category: Patricia Hinz, As nature intended - Award sponsored by Chinchilla RSL Memorial Club
Photography and New Media Art Category: Katie Robertson, Don't silence her - Award sponsored by Trina Martin
3D Work Category: Guy Breay, RM - Award sponsored by KOKOrdination
Works on Paper Category: Michelle Black, Golden harvest: Black soil plains II - Award sponsored by WDRC
The People's Choice Award winner will be announced upon the closing of the exhibition.
