Arts indulgence
Organisers busy preparing for Horsham’s iconic Wimmera Art Fair this weekend have promised another diverse exhibition of regional talent.
Event chairman Chris O’connor said the fair, at Horsham Town Hall and in its 42nd year, had attracted a similar number of artwork entries to last year and space remained for latecomers.
“We have a fantastic collection of works that will be on display and for sale, but we can always welcome more,” he said.
“We’ve kept the door open and will allow entries until the close of business tomorrow.”
Rotary Club of Horsham East runs the annual event, which will have its official launch on Friday night and remain open for public viewing and sales until 3pm, Sunday.
Club president Geoff Eagle said he was looking forward to the annual arts indulgence.
“This is an exciting year in many ways for the club,” he said.
“It is celebrating 42 years of promoting art in Horsham and the wider Wimmera community, with the opening night considered a premier event.
“This will be the third year Wimmera Art Fair will be part of the Horsham Art is.. festival program.
“This partnership is important in the ongoing development of the art fair to ensure it remains dynamic and meaningful to our community.”
The Rotary club uses 15 percent of art sales to support regional projects and causes and this year will include a donation to a Saying No to Family Violence program.
“The club has a history of providing physical and financial support to Horsham’s major projects
that improve the lifestyle of our community,” Mr Eagle said.
Proceeds from the fair have allowed the club to donate $150,000 over 41 years to local and community projects.”
Community support
Mr Eagle urged people to support the fair, which at the same time supported Rotary community projects across the Wimmera.
Mr O’connor said based on entries, there was something to meet a variety of artist tastes.
“There is everything from photography, sculpture and student submissions to paintings and work from experienced artists,” he said.
“Entries have come in from right across the Wimmera-mallee.
“There will be something there that appeals to someone.
“This is what’s great about this fair. As well as generating money for great causes and providing a wonderful event for people to attend, the fair also opens the door for artists to seriously show off their work in a large and diverse exhibition. “The Wimmera-mallee is renowned for its art. “What better way than to get such a collection together at the town hall and as part of the Art is…festival?
“This is our 42nd year and after a hiatus for town hall development we’re keen to continue to rebuild the event back to its iconic status. This is a great art show.”
People can submit scanned and emailed entries to herc.artfair@gmail.com.
Entry forms are available online at www.hreartfair.com.