The Harden Murrumburrah Arts Council held their first Annual Art Show on Friday night in 22 years without the presence of Alby Shultz, former Federal MP who passed away in July this year. Alby and his wife Gloria have for over two decades kept the date of the Arts show sacred. Gloria was “Overwhelmed” when President Connie Mcfadyen asked her to open the show this year. “Thankyou for the warm welcome, when Connie asked me I was overwhelmed. Alby and I loved this show. The people, the warmth and the sense of fun is why it is so special.”
The large crowd were served refreshments and a light supper during the evening, with many guests taking the opportunity to gaze at the hard work from both local artists and those from the surrounding region. Gloria said, “Events like this in small rural communities don’t happen without the support of the community. The artists are exposing their souls when they paint or draw and I congratulate them on their efforts.” Alan McLure took out the G.O. Kruger Memorial Prize worth $1000. The well known artist and Tafe art teacher has guided the skills and careers of many local artists. Cootamundra local Mclure has won many awards over a distinguished career. Judge Col Nelson said, “I thought I had bitten off more than I could chew, so many paintings were so good, I was really thrilled to be asked to spend a few hours here and judge the artworks. I kept coming back to Alan’s piece and was happy to award it the winner.”
Kruger Trust Chairman Jim Wright said, “We recognise art in the community and the importance of the Arts Council, I would like to acknowledge the contribution made by Alby and Gloria over the years.” Alan said “ All these works deserve praise and I thankyou very much for the award.”
The following awards were presented in the following categories: Section 1- For Arts Council members sponsored by Bendigo Bank and presented by Jen Sheridan. First Place- David Henderson Second Place- Sue Grieves. Section 2- Drawing presented by Pauline Jonach- Memorial to her late husband Ron Revett. First Place- Bob Brabin (Temora) Second Place- Pam Heys Section 3- Oil/Acrylic presented by Gloria Schultz. First Place- Ron Kirkland Second Place- Alan McClure Section 4- Water Colour presented by John Horton First Place-Caroline Shaw (Young) Second Place-Caroline Shaw (Young) Section 5- Pastel presented by Hugh Pavitt. Bev Lappan Section 6- Contemporary/Modern presented by Brian. First Place- Judy Barker (Young) Second Place- Diana McLeod (Harden) Section 7- Small Painting presented by Gloria Schultz. First Place- Mary Marsh (Boorowa) Second Place- Judy Barker (Young) If you missed the exhibition it will re open for this weekend between 10 am and 4pm on Saturday and Sunday at the Murrumburrah Court House. A ceramics display is also available for viewing with works made by local students using a kiln donated by Pam Holding.
