The Merredin Fine Arts Society have celebrated their 50th anniversary with the launch of the “Golden Brush Strokes” art exhibition last weekend.
More than 150 attended the event held at the Cummins Theatre in Merredin.
Founding member Mrs Anne Sutherland lead proceedings with $3,700 in prize money on offer with just over 130 works of art showcased.
The overall winner was Anne Sutherland with Bush Colour followed by runner up Rosemary Lambert with A Country Girl.
Streets of your Town by Jess Spring won the Merredin Shire Acquisition Award and Secret Paths by Beryl Semple won the Past members Award.
The People’s Choice Award that was voted on throughout the exhibition was won by Jo Millington for her paintings titled “Murders on the Rabbit Proof Fence” a series of seven paintings portraying the true story of the 1930’s Rabbit Proof Fence murders also known as the Murchison murders.
President of the MFAS Margaret Teasdale said she was delighted by the local enthusiasm and support from the community over the exhibition, especially on opening night and was proud of the caliber of works presented.
The exhibition included works from the Society’s present members as well as a number of past members.
Some of the long term members exhibiting on the night included Nellie Crees, Rosemary Lambert, Val Curtis, Jo Millington and Robert McCaffrey, some of which have held individual exhibitions.
Nationals WA Leader Mia Davies was in attendance.
“I congratulate all present and past members of the MFAS on their 50th anniversary and fabulous exhibition showcasing yet again some magnificent pieces of art,” Ms Davies said.
“This wonderful milestone is a testament to the group’s hard work and individual skills over the decades and has also allowed us into their world by the stories their art tells.
“We are lucky to experience events such as this that highlight and recognise the wonderful talent we have here in the Wheatbelt.
“The arts scene in the Central Wheatbelt is going from strength to strength.
“I look forward to receiving works from artists who reside in my electorate when I host the Wheatbelt Art Prize in 2019.”
