The high quality of artwork at this year’s Woodgate Arts in Spring was evident as pieces sold like hot cakes on day one of the exhibition.
The annual art exhibition made a welcome return to the region with organisers praising not only the superb art pieces, but also the commitment from locals who helped make it possible and those who took the time to take it all in.
From images reflecting the devastating Woodgate Beach bush fires, right through to brilliantly coloured native birds embroidered on paperbark, the exhibition emulated the Bundaberg Region to a tee.
Taking on the role of curator of Woodgate Spring in Art for the first time, local multi-award-winning artist Vanessa Allegra provided a fresh approach to the long running exhibition.
Vanessa said about 90 pieces of artwork were showcased in this year’s Woodgate Arts in Spring exhibition, with a large percentage being produced by local artists.
“I am just really, deeply happy with the quality of works that each of the artist have given me,” she said.
“I love the way they are all hung together as they seem to just gel all really well together.
“The artists are really incredible, and I am really proud of them.
“There are artists here that people have been watching for years and they can see the trajectory of their work and how they have progressed to these beautiful artworks now.
“The Woodgate community events team have been superb – the teamwork to do this and organise this, even the local fireys got in and helped.”
Not only did the artwork impress Vanessa, but also the crowds of people who travelled to the beachside community to attend Woodgate Arts in Spring.
Local art appreciator Andrea McLaren said there were a number of artworks that caught her eye, and she was hoping to acquire another to add to her collection.
“I absolutely love art, I try to get to as many of the local exhibitions as I can, from BRAG to the recent Bundaberg Art Prize,” she said.
“There is a piece by Jenny McDuff that I really like, and I picked it as being inspired by Charles Blackman who is a very famous Australian artist.
“There really is some brilliant work here.”
Woodgate Community Events’ Lesley Christensen said there was still time to head along to check out the artwork up until Monday at 1pm.
“We have music and entertainment, treasures, food and much more at the markets on Monday,” Lesley said.
“A sausage sizzle barbecue, and it will be your last chance to check out the amazing artwork.”
