Artists praise Ida Valley’s inaugural art show

The work of five Central Otago artists packed Oturehua Hall as the town hosted the inaugural Ida Valley Winter Art Show over Matariki weekend.

The exhibition began on Friday with an opening ceremony and visitors were able to view the sculptures, paintings and ceramics on display and sale until Sunday.

The event closed with a ceremony at which the people’s choice winner was announced.

Oturehua artist Martin Sullivan won the award and the $2750 prize.

Painter Tony Shields, who lives in Oturehua, said the event was great as it was another event in the town that enhanced the community.

Mr Shields, who has painted his entire life, said the turnout over the weekend was extremely pleasing.

Pastel landscape artist Debbie Moore said it was fantastic she was invited to the event.

As she had recently moved to Maniototo and was pretty much unknown to the community, the exhibition gave her the opportunity to get to know the artists and the wider community.

Mrs Moore had been creating art since she was young, but stopped as she raised a family. After moving south she decided to take it up again.

Alexandra-based ceramicist Ruth Arnott said the event was a really awesome community event and a wonderful use of the hall.

All her work on display was made specially for the exhibition and her main inspiration came from nature.

As it was Matariki, some of her work was inspired by the sky, she said.