Community
30 May, 2024
Exhibition numbers soaring for Mortlake Art Show
THE Mortlake Art Show will undergo a revamp this year as it embraces the changing landscape of art.
With the show returning over the King’s Birthday long weekend, Mortlake Art Show co-convenor Cassandra Ellis said so far around 90 pieces had already been entered in a show which promises to be a “little bit different”.
This year will mark the first year a prize has been offered for photography exhibitions.
“The prizes are Best in Show, Emerging Artists (under 16 years), People’s Choice Award, Packer’s Award and the all-new Photography Award” Mrs Ellis said.
“We’ve seen a steady increase in photography exhibitions over the years, be it due to people taking photos on their iPhones or the technological advancement in cameras.
“But this year it has really taken off, so we made the decision to present a dedicated award.
“We’re also very proud of the People’s Choice Award because we ask attendees to grab a slip and write the number of their favour iteartwork, announced at the end of the show; so, it’s a real people’s choice vote which draws on the diversity of the crowds.”
The Mortlake Art Show will also return with its traditional gala opening evening, to be hosted from 6pm-9pm on Friday, June 7.
The gala opening night had not been hosted since the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the format of the event, but the return of the night will feature a collaboration with a local artist whose focus has shifted from the canvas to the kitchen.
“We will have catering by The Streeterie, a Port Fairy-based catering business which is run James and Holly Cody-Davis,” Mrs Ellis said.
“James is originally from Mortlake and he’s well known for his art, and has been a big supporter of the Mortlake Art Show throughout the years, so we’re delighted to be reconnecting with him.
“Booking for the gala opening is essential; entry is $25 per person (exhibiting artists have free entry) but that covers hors d’oeuvres, drinks and entertainment performed by local band Paint and Suffering.”
To book for the gala opening, contact Mrs Ellis on 0412 273 334.
The 2024 Mortlake Art Show will also have stalls available from local volunteers and Moyne Shire Council.
“Lexie Niemeyer and Craig Porter from Crexie Volcanic Victoria Fossicking and Lapidary will have a table at the art show, showing their incredible creations,” Mrs Ellis said.
“Moyne Shire Council will also have a table on the Monday between 10am and 1pm, and will be there to talk to people about the shire’s art and culture strategy.
“All this will be in addition to a really different show, with more 3D and tactile work.
“It’s going to be really interesting and expands in to all types of art.”
Mrs Ellis encouraged anyone interested in exhibiting their work to put themselves, and their artwork, out for the public to enjoy.
“The Mortlake Art Show is one of the few art shows with no entry free, which takes away barriers in place for someone to exhibit their first artwork,” she said.
“We want to encourage new artists while also showcasing those who have years of experience.
“We want to be a little country town art show which is open to everyone to express their style of art.
“Give it a go.”
The Mortlake Art Show will be held at the Mortlake Returned and Services League Hall at10am-4pm across the King’s Birthday long weekend (Saturday-Monday, June 8-10).
Entry for attendees is a gold coin donation.
Entry forms for artists interested in exhibiting are available at www.mortlakeartshow.com, and can be submitted to mortlakeartists@gmail.com.
Expressions of interest close Friday, May 31.