October 12th, 2023From Overwrought to Humoroos: entries roll in for upcoming art show

Words: Committee coordinator Jenny Hopkins | Image: Contributed

Paintings. Well, on July 1 when art entries were invited, paintings began to flow in, soon afterwards however there was a hiatus. For someone new to this job that was a matter of concern despite the perpetual comments: Don’t worry they’ll all pile in on the last few days. So true – they did.
This is being written on D-day, October 2. A week ago, there were 84 paintings…right now the 150th one I dreamed about last night has rolled in and tumbling over it are more. Not just quantity but uniqueness and quality. Such a relief. Thank you artists.
While that is happening, entries for various forms of sculpture arrived. And, I mean various forms, from Overwrought to Humoroos.
Sometime in between, talented quilters Tina Whittaker and Chris Calheiros opened up and categorised more than 50 outstanding quilts.
Then there was the visit to Newstead to meet Trevor, Helen, and their bonsai trees in their flourishing garden. Many years ago, they replaced an empty paddock with plants including bonsai trees.
In early November, some bonsais will find a spot on the smaller stage in the Daylesford Town Hall with some locally produced pottery and sculpture – not far from the Bendigo Bank Bar, perhaps more appropriately named Cheers for Forty Years.
We needed a judge of course. Well, we have two, Kim Percy and Morgan Williams, who are very used to judging and commenting on art in many forms at Radius Gallery.
This is Daylesford Rotary’s Art Show. Already we are delighted to involve Rotary members and friends. The Art Show committee members are Hepburn Council former CEO Victor S, Citizen of the Year 2022 Danny M, Victorian Quilters vice-president Denise L, artist, book author and donor of the major raffle prize, above, Brian N and his partner artist Roberta D, our scribe, Koos H, and me.
We are pleased also to involved members of the newly established Art Co-operative. They will be seen during the Art Show, welcoming you at the door, ensuring we have lots of delicious food and refreshing drinks at the not- to-be-missed Bendigo Bank Daylesford District opening and awards night.
That night and the four days afterwards will be filled with activity including scones, jam and cream, with fresh coffee, while you consider buying a painting, sculpture or quilt.
That does sound like a lot of helpers/volunteers – but we do need more for the opening (awards) night. We would love to involve more members of the community who are sure to find the experience fun and enjoyable. Link: www.daylesfordartshow.com.au/openingnight