Webb's oil painting Last Bowl claimed the $3500 top prize out of 117 entries from throughout the
South Island.
Graham Tait was second with his oil Now and Then - A Glimpse of Sun (Lindis), winning $1000,
and Anne Baldock was third with her acrylic work Dunedin Alleyway ($500).
The awards had the theme ‘‘Now and Then'' and were judged by Dunedin photographer Matheson Beaumont.
‘‘The winning entry was a beautifully constructed work, with a strong sense of design, which subtly acknowledged the exhibition's theme,'' Mr Beaumont said last night.
‘‘I thought all of the works were very innovative and interesting. The quality was very good and I was impressed with the diversity and the skill in the works.''
Otago Art Society acting vicepresident Ngaere Moss said the awards were a popular fixture with South Island artists.
‘‘It was the usual high standard of work and there was quite a variety this year. There are quite a few big works. We have a size limit of 1.2m and some people have painted right to the edge.''
The Hope and Sons Art Awards have been held every second year since 1998.
The exhibition opens to the public at 10am today and runs until May 25.
A people's choice prize will be awarded at the end of the exhibition.
