THE 22nd annual Kerang Rotary Art Show lit up the Easter long weekend with a vibrant showcase of creativity, community spirit, and strong local support.
Held at the Kerang Basketball Stadium, the much-loved event featured hundreds of works from artists across Victoria and beyond, attracting both seasoned art lovers and curious newcomers.
Co-ordinator Jenny Kelly expressed her delight at the event’s continued success.
“It was another very successful show, with some magnificent exhibits,” she said
“And we had a good amount of sales – there were 44 sales, which is about 10 per cent of the artworks shown.
“I’ve been told that’s a fairly good barometer to say you’ve done pretty well.”
In total, the art show welcomed around 450 visitors over the course of the weekend – an impressive turnout that highlights the event’s enduring popularity.
Half of the entries came from what Ms Kelly considers “local” artists – many of whom personally delivered their work to Kerang, travelling from places as far as Bridgewater and the other side of Swan Hill.
While Kerang Rotary offers convenient art drop-off depots in regional hubs like Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo, Whittlesea, Mildura and Halls Gap, some artists still chose to make the trip in person.
“It’s fantastic that the locals are really supporting it,” Ms Kelly said.
“It shows how much they value being part of this community event.”
This year’s guest judge was oil painter Ross Paterson.
As always, the event was a major team effort.
While the Rotary Club’s core volunteer base is ageing, they were bolstered by family, friends, and generous community members who pitched in – from working in the kitchen to helping with logistics.
Ms Kelly said planning started months in advance.
“Just before Christmas I start altering documents, checking in with depot contacts, and in January or February, we send out sponsorship letters,” she said.
“I’m always blown away by the support we get from local businesses. We’re very grateful for our sponsors.”
One of the art show’s key partnerships is with the Golden Rivers Artists, who organise the event’s respected judge – often tying in the selection with their annual art workshop.
A standout moment of the weekend was the selection of the shire acquisition piece – a bold and striking artwork by Balranald artist Jan Lawler, that drew plenty of attention. It was her second piece in consecutive years to be selected.
“It’s very different to anything any of the previous mayors have chosen,” Ms Kelly said.
“I think Mayor Garner Smith did a very good job with his choice. It’ll be a strong addition to the shire’s art collection.”
Cr Smith’s reasoning was the sense of a rural family enjoying a celebration together – an easy concept for all to identify with and feel part of.
The next art show will be held from April 3-5 next year.
