HUGE crowds turned to the two-day Myall University of the Third Age (MU3A) Art Show in Hawks Nest.
Saturday’s grey skies sent visitors looking for an indoor event, and they found plenty to peruse, ranging from labours of love to passion projects, and plenty of artistic experimentation on show.
Dozens of local artists displayed more than 300 works in Hawks Nest Hall. Many were finding art for the first time; some had been active for many years.
Sales started early, as the setup on the Friday before had visitors popping in. More thanr a dozen local works were sold before the show actually began.
By the end of the two-day event, 33 of the 36 artists had sold some of their work, including 92-year-old Marilyn, who was at her first-ever exhibition.
On Friday night, MU3A hosted their invitation-only Opening Night, complete with bubbles and nibbles, to celebrate another year of artistic endeavour and instruction.
Angry ducklings, cute puppies, gorgeous landscapes, and portraits that extended the spectrum from realistic to abstract renditions, plus a gamut of artistic medium variations, graced both rooms of the hall.
Local author Ray Keipert sold several books from his anthology, while discussing plotlines and inspirations with patrons. He hopes to have a new title out next year.
The buzz on both Saturday and Sunday was reinforced by the Newcastle Knights imminent grand final appearance on Sunday night. Several people in the room were out and proud fans.
Tea Gardens Red Cross ran a morning tea, offering a smorgasbord of delicious home-made cakes and slices to enjoy while attendees inspected the creative output of local towns.
MU3A Art Group convenor Jeanette Hart thanked the exhibiting artists and the teams that set up the stands and displays.
“We have had people volunteering here for three days, and could not have done this without their time and effort,” she said.
“Our U3A art group also thanks the community and visitors for their support.
“We’re grateful they valued our work to purchase them.”
Sales exceeded last year, with more than 130 paintings and 90 cards, bookmarks, pot holders and other items sold.
The art raffle was a huge success, with the money raised going to buying art supplies for the group and inviting professional artists to teach techniques.
Ms Hart thanked Christina Reid, Mandy Craig and Ros Jones for each donating a painting for the Tombola raffle, which was won by Anthony, Jacinta and Ray.
Across the two days, more than 650 visitors walked through the door, proving that local artists’ work is appreciated by many.
By Thomas O’KEEFE
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