A record 480 entries were exhibited in the annual Inverloch Art Show over the Easter weekend, helping to raise funds for food boxes to support Bass Coast residents in need.
The art show was held at the Inverloch Community Hub by the Inverloch Art Show Auxiliary. Proceeds are the only source of funds for the food box program of Bass Coast Health (BCH). Social Workers and Support Staff distribute these food boxes to vulnerable children, families and community members to ensure they do not go hungry. This is done in a respectful way that maintains their dignity and confidence.
Auxiliary President Deb Watson was pleased to see 30 entries from youth artists and 20 in the All Ability section.
“The art show is important for four main reasons - the funds we raise for the food boxes distributed by Bass Coast Health, the opportunity for artists to show their talents, an event for the local community and the contribution to the visitor economy in Bass Coast,” she said.
BCH Interim CEO Simone Alexander paid tribute to Auxiliary members past and present for their support over nearly four decades.
“This year’s show was organised and run by a committee of 10 volunteers, some of whom have been involved for more than 30 years. Other volunteers also help to hang artworks and to run the show over the Easter weekend,” she said.
“This a remarkable effort and an example of the outstanding community spirit that BCH is fortunate to enjoy. Every dollar raised goes towards helping BCH to care for our community.”
The 37th show attracted entries from South and West Gippsland, and also further afield. The winner of the Blair Art Prize for best in show, and valued at $2,500, was Kerry Spokes with her mixed media work, Boy. The award is sponsored by the Bendigo Bank - Inverloch Community Bank. The People’s Choice Award went to Luke Goldfinch for his pastel piece, Bambi.