BELLINGEN, NSW — The prestigious EJ Mantova Art Prize exhibition officially opened with great success on Saturday, April 26th at the Bellingen Gallery and Framing Studio, marking an exciting prelude to the upcoming Bellingen Show.
The opening event saw an impressive turnout as art enthusiasts gathered to celebrate local creative talent and the legacy of Ernest John Mantova, recognised as Bellingen’s first professional artist. In a remarkable display of community support for local arts, twelve artworks were sold by the end of the opening.
“We’re thrilled with the tremendous response to this year’s exhibition,” said Susan Lumsdaine, President of the Bellinger River Agricultural Society. “The number of entries and sales so far demonstrate the vibrant appreciation for local artistic talent in our community.”
Special thanks were extended to judges Carrie Kibbler and Vanessa Jacob from Yarrila Arts Museum Coffs Harbour, who provided their expertise, wisdom, and thoughtful commentary during the judging process. Their professional insights added significant value to the competition.
The exhibition, which continues at the Bellingen Gallery and Framing Studio until May 25th, invites the public to cast their votes for the People’s Choice Award before 4pm on Thursday, May 22nd. Winners from the exhibition and the People’s Choice recipient will have their works showcased in the Pavilion during the Bellingen Show weekend on May 24-25.
This month-long format, established last year, continues to prove successful by giving the community extended opportunities to engage with the works and celebrate the rich artistic tradition of the region. The exhibition features diverse mediums including paintings, sculptures, and other art forms that highlight the depth of creative talent in the Bellingen area. This year saw the introduction of a new miniatures section.
The EJ Mantova Art Prize exhibition is sponsored by Affirmations Publishing House, Bellingen Shire Council, C.ex Coffs Harbour, Nexus Gallery Bellingen (BCAC), Bellingen Gallery & Framing Studio, Ali Brown and Jenny Diamond, whose support makes this celebration of local arts possible.
Community members and visitors are encouraged to visit the exhibition before it closes on May 25th and to attend the Bellingen Show, where additional exciting changes for 2025 include a new Saturday morning Official Opening time and free entry for all school children.
For more information:
Bellinger River Agricultural Society
Email: secretary@bellingenshow.com.au
Phone: 0498 483 915
Website: www.bellingenshow.com.au
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