Sylvia Clarkson, of Dunedin, peruses the winning entry at this year's Hope and Sons Art Awards, Two Chairs - No Waiting, by Invercargill artist Paul Lindsay, who wins $3000.
Otago Art Society councillor Alf Berland said of 294 entries, 174 were chosen to display at the Art Station at Dunedin Railway Station.
The South Island competition, held every two years, was as popular as ever, he said.
A rule change this year meant artists could submit two paintings.
Judge Robyn Notman, of the Dunedin Public Art Gallery, awarded the first three places.
She also decided which entries would be displayed, as the gallery did not have room for them all.
The winner of the $500 people's choice award would be announced at the end of the month-long display.
